Communication method and related apparatus

Abstract

The embodiment of the present application discloses a communication method and related device, which are used for positioning a terminal device by a positioning device. A first access network device sends a UE context request message to a source access network device; the first access network device receives a UE context response message from the source access network device, wherein the UE context response message comprises reference information used for configuring a sounding reference signal (SRS) of a terminal device, and / or information used for indicating that the terminal device is configured with the SRS, and the terminal device is in an inactivated state; the first access network device determines SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to the reference information and / or the information used for indicating that the terminal device is configured with the SRS; and the first access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the communication technology field, and in particular to a communication method and related apparatus. BACKGROUND

[0002] Positioning function is an important function of 5G new radio (NR). At present, in the uplink positioning technology, a location management function (LMF) device requests a nearest serving base station of a user equipment (UE) to configure sounding reference signal (SRS) configuration information for the UE. The UE is in an inactive state. The nearest serving base station is a serving base station that releases the UE to the inactive state. The nearest serving base station can configure SRS resources for the UE and send the SRS configuration information of the UE to the UE. In addition, the nearest serving base station sends the SRS configuration information of the UE to the LMF device in response to the SRS configuration information request of the LMF device. Then, the LMF device selects a measurement base station and sends a measurement request to the measurement base station. The measurement base station measures the SRS sent by the UE and reports the positioning information measurement result of the UE to the LMF device. Thus, the LMF device can position the UE according to the positioning information measurement result.

[0003] However, when the UE is in the inactive state and the UE moves from the nearest serving base station to other new base stations, the LMF device still requests the nearest serving base station to configure SRS configuration information for the UE. However, because the UE moves from the nearest serving base station to other new base stations, the nearest serving base station cannot configure SRS configuration information for the UE, resulting in that the LMF device fails to request the UE to configure SRS configuration information, and further resulting in that the LMF device cannot position the UE. SUMMARY

[0004] Embodiments of the present application provide a communication method and related apparatus, which are used to position a terminal device by a positioning device.

[0005] A first aspect of embodiments of the present application provides a communication method, and the communication method comprises:

[0006] The first access network device sends a UE context acquisition request message to the source access network device. Then, the first access network device receives a UE context acquisition response message from the source access network device. The UE context acquisition response message includes a reference signal for configuring a sounding reference signal of the terminal device, and / or information for indicating that the terminal device is configured with an SRS. The terminal device is in an inactive state. The first access network device determines SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to the reference signal and / or the information for indicating that the terminal device is configured with the SRS. The first access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device.

[0007] In this embodiment, the terminal device is in an inactive state, and the first access network device can acquire reference information for configuring an SRS of the terminal device in the process of requesting a context of the terminal device from the source access network device. Then, the first access network device determines SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to the reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device, and sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device, so as to configure the SRS for the terminal device. In this way, the terminal device is in an inactive state, and the positioning device can successfully request to configure the SRS for the terminal device, so as to facilitate the positioning device to position the terminal device. That is, the technical solution of the embodiment of the present application avoids the problem that the positioning device fails to position the terminal device due to the failure of the positioning device to request to configure the SRS for the terminal device.

[0008] In a possible implementation manner, the reference information includes information of a sounding reference signal transmission characteristic, and the information of the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic includes at least one of a transmission period of the SRS recommended by the positioning device for the terminal device, a bandwidth of the SRS, or a transmission frequency point of the SRS.

[0009] In this possible implementation manner, the source access network device assists the first access network device to configure the SRS for the terminal device through the transmission period of the SRS recommended by the positioning device for the terminal device, the bandwidth of the SRS, or the transmission frequency point of the SRS, so as to facilitate the positioning device to position the terminal device.

[0010] In another possible implementation manner, the UE context acquisition response message includes a routing identifier, and the routing identifier is used to identify the positioning device.

[0011] In the possible implementation, the source access network device sends the routing identifier to the first access network device through the UE context acquisition response message. In this way, after the first access network device acquires the routing identifier, the first access network device determines the SRS configuration information of the terminal device. Then, the first access network device can send the SRS configuration information of the terminal device to the positioning device through the core network device, and carries the routing identifier in the message used to send the SRS configuration information. The core network device identifies the positioning device corresponding to the routing identifier through the routing identifier. Then, the positioning device forwards the SRS configuration sent by the first access network device to the positioning device to the positioning device, so as to facilitate the positioning device to position the terminal device.

[0012] In another possible implementation, the UE context acquisition request message includes any one of the following: first information or second information; the first information is used to request reference information; and the second information is used to request positioning information of the terminal device.

[0013] In the possible implementation, in the process of acquiring the context of the terminal device, the UE context acquisition request message sent by the first access network device to the source access network device includes the first information and / or the second information. The source access network device can know that the first access network device requests to acquire the UE context according to the UE context acquisition request message. Further, the source access network device can also know that the first access network device requests to acquire the reference information or the positioning information of the terminal device, so that the source access network device sends the reference information or the positioning information to the first access network device.

[0014] In another possible implementation, the method further includes: receiving, by the first access network device, a paging message from the source access network device; the paging message includes at least one of the following: third information, reference information, fourth information, or fifth information; the third information is used to indicate that the paging message is used for positioning the terminal device; the fourth information is used to request positioning information of the terminal device; and the fifth information is used to request to configure SRS for the terminal device.

[0015] In the possible implementation, the paging message includes at least one of the following: third information, reference information, fourth information, or fifth information. In this way, the first access network device can know the reason or purpose of the paging of the source access network device, i.e., positioning the terminal device or configuring SRS for the terminal device. Subsequently, the first access network device can page the terminal device and configure SRS for the terminal device. Further, the first access network device can release the terminal device as early as possible, so that the terminal device enters or is in the inactive state, thereby avoiding energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0016] In another possible implementation, the paging message further includes a routing identifier, and the routing identifier is used to identify the positioning device.

[0017] In the possible implementation, the source access network device sends the routing identifier to the first access network device through the paging message. In this way, after the first access network device determines the SRS configuration information of the terminal device, the first access network device can send the SRS configuration information of the terminal device to the positioning device through the core network device, and carry the routing identifier in the message used for sending the SRS configuration information. The core network device identifies the positioning device corresponding to the routing identifier through the routing identifier, and forwards the SRS configuration sent by the first access network device to the positioning device to the positioning device, so as to facilitate the positioning device to position the terminal device.

[0018] In another possible implementation, the first access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device, including: the first access network device sends a radio resource control (RRC) release message to the terminal device, and the RRC release message includes the SRS configuration information.

[0019] In the possible implementation, the first access network device pages the terminal device for positioning of the terminal device or for configuring the SRS for the terminal device, and the first access network device can send the RRC release message to the terminal device, so that the terminal device is in the inactive state. Energy consumption caused by the terminal device entering the connected state is avoided, and at the same time, the first access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device through the RRC release message, so as to configure the SRS for the terminal device. Moreover, the time delay of the first access network device sending the SRS configuration information to the terminal device is reduced, so as to send the SRS configuration information to the terminal device earlier and faster. The additional time delay of the positioning bandwidth of the terminal device is avoided, and the positioning efficiency is improved.

[0020] In another possible implementation, the method further includes: the first access network device sends a UE context release message to the source access network device, and the UE context release message includes the SRS configuration information.

[0021] In the possible implementation, the source access network device can send the SRS configuration information to the positioning device, so as to facilitate the positioning device to position the terminal device.

[0022] The second aspect of the embodiment of the application provides a communication method, and the communication method includes:

[0023] The source access network device receives the UE context acquisition request message sent by the first access network device. Then, the source access network device sends a UE context acquisition response message to the first access network device. The UE context acquisition response message includes reference information used for configuring the SRS of the terminal device, and / or information used for indicating that the terminal device is not configured with the SRS. The terminal device is in the inactive state.

[0024] In this embodiment, the terminal device is in an inactive state, and the source access network device can request the first access network device for reference information for configuring SRS of the terminal device in the process of requesting the terminal device context by the first access network device. Then, the first access network device determines SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to the reference information for configuring SRS of the terminal device, and sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device, so as to configure SRS for the terminal device. In this way, in the case that the terminal device is in an inactive state, the positioning device can successfully request to configure SRS for the terminal device, so as to facilitate the positioning device to position the terminal device. That is, the technical solution of the embodiment of the present application avoids the problem that the positioning device fails to position the terminal device due to the failure of the positioning device to request to configure SRS for the terminal device.

[0025] In a possible implementation manner, the reference information includes information of a sounding reference signal transmission characteristic, and the information of the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic includes at least one of the following: a transmission period of SRS recommended by the positioning device to be configured for the terminal device, a bandwidth of the SRS, or a transmission frequency point of the SRS.

[0026] In this possible implementation manner, the source access network device assists the first access network device to configure SRS for the terminal device through the transmission period of SRS recommended by the positioning device to be configured for the terminal device, the bandwidth of the SRS, or the transmission frequency point of the SRS, so as to facilitate the positioning device to position the terminal device.

[0027] In another possible implementation manner, the UE context response message includes a routing identifier, and the routing identifier is used to identify the positioning device.

[0028] In this possible implementation manner, the source access network device sends the routing identifier to the first access network device through the UE context response message. In this way, after the first access network device obtains the routing identifier, the first access network device determines SRS configuration information of the terminal device. Then, the first access network device can send the SRS configuration information of the terminal device to the positioning device through the core network device, and carries the routing identifier in the message for sending the SRS configuration information. The core network device identifies the positioning device corresponding to the routing identifier through the routing identifier, and forwards the SRS configuration information of the terminal device sent by the first access network device to the positioning device, so as to facilitate the positioning device to position the terminal device.

[0029] In another possible implementation manner, the UE context request message includes any one of the following: first information or second information; the first information is used to request the reference information; and the second information is used to request positioning information of the terminal device.

[0030] In the possible implementation, in the process of acquiring the context of the terminal device, the first access network device sends the acquiring UE context request message to the source access network device, and the acquiring UE context request message includes the first information and / or the second information. The source access network device can learn that the first access network device requests to acquire the UE context according to the acquiring UE context request message. Further, the source access network device can also learn that the first access network device requests to acquire the reference information or the positioning information of the terminal device, so as to send the reference information or the positioning information to the first access network device.

[0031] In another possible implementation, the method further includes: the source access network device sends a paging message to the first access network device; the paging message includes any one of the third information, the reference information, the fourth information, or the fifth information; the third information is used to indicate that the paging message is used for positioning of the terminal device; the fourth information is used to request the positioning information of the terminal device; and the fifth information is used to request to configure the SRS for the terminal device.

[0032] In the possible implementation, the first access network device can learn the reason or the purpose of the paging of the source access network device through the paging message including at least one of the third information, the reference information, the fourth information, or the fifth information. In this way, the first access network device can page the terminal device and configure the SRS for the terminal device. Further, after the first access network device completes the configuration of the SRS for the terminal device, the first access network device can release the terminal device as soon as possible, so that the terminal device enters or is in the inactive state, thereby avoiding the energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0033] In another possible implementation, the method further includes: the source access network device receives the UE context release message from the first access network device, and the UE context release message includes the SRS configuration information; and then, the source access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the positioning device.

[0034] In the possible implementation, the source access network device can send the SRS configuration information to the positioning device, so as to facilitate the positioning device to position the terminal device.

[0035] The third aspect of the embodiment of the present application provides a communication method, and the communication method includes:

[0036] The terminal device sends the RRC resume request message to the first access network device. Then, the terminal device receives the RRC release message from the first access network device. The RRC release message includes the SRS configuration information. The SRS configuration information is determined by the first access network device according to the reference information used to configure the SRS of the terminal device.

[0037] In this embodiment, the first access network device can send an RRC release message to the terminal device, so that the terminal device is in the inactive state. Energy consumption caused by the terminal device entering the connected state is avoided, and the first access network device sends SRS configuration information to the terminal device through the RRC release message, so as to configure SRS for the terminal device. Moreover, the latency of the first access network device sending SRS configuration information to the terminal device is reduced, so that SRS configuration information is sent to the terminal device earlier and faster. The additional latency of the positioning bandwidth of the terminal device is avoided, and the positioning efficiency is improved.

[0038] In a possible implementation manner, the reference information includes information of a sounding reference signal transmission characteristic, and the information of the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic includes at least one of the following: a transmission period of the SRS recommended by the positioning device for the terminal device, or a bandwidth of the SRS.

[0039] In this possible implementation manner, the transmission period of the SRS recommended by the positioning device for the terminal device, or the bandwidth of the SRS is used to assist the first access network device in configuring SRS for the terminal device, so as to facilitate the positioning device in positioning the terminal device.

[0040] The fourth aspect of the embodiment of the present application provides a communication method, and the communication method includes:

[0041] The positioning device sends a positioning information request message to the access network device. Then, the positioning device receives a positioning information response message from the access network device, and the positioning information response message includes at least one of the following: information used to indicate that the positioning device re-requests the terminal device to configure SRS, the terminal device being in the inactive state; information used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the access network device, the terminal device being in the inactive state; information used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the access network device, the terminal device being in the inactive state; or information used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the access network device in the inactive state.

[0042] In this embodiment, the access network device sends a positioning information response message to the positioning device. The positioning information response message includes: information used to indicate that the positioning device re-requests the terminal device to configure SRS; information used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the access network device, the terminal device being in the inactive state; information used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the access network device, the terminal device being in the inactive state; or information used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the access network device in the inactive state. In this way, the positioning device will not understand that the terminal device cannot be configured with SRS in the case that the terminal device is in the signal coverage range of the access network device, thereby causing the positioning device to believe that the terminal device cannot be positioned. The positioning device can re-request the terminal device to configure SRS in combination with the positioning response message, so as to facilitate subsequent positioning of the terminal device.

[0043] The fifth aspect of the embodiments of the present application provides a communication method, and the communication method comprises the following steps:

[0044] The positioning device sends a positioning information request message to the access network device. Then, the positioning device receives a positioning information failure message from the access network device. The positioning information failure message comprises a cause. The cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the access network device and the terminal device is in an inactive state; or the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the access network device and the terminal device is in an inactive state; or the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the access network device in an inactive state.

[0045] In the embodiments, the positioning device receives a positioning information failure message from the access network device. The positioning information failure message comprises a cause. The cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the access network device and the terminal device is in an inactive state; or the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the access network device and the terminal device is in an inactive state; or the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the access network device in an inactive state. In this way, the positioning device will not understand that the SRS cannot be configured for the terminal device in the case that the terminal device is in the signal coverage range of the access network device, and thus the positioning device considers that the terminal device cannot be positioned. The positioning device can request the SRS to be configured for the terminal device again in combination with the positioning response message, so as to facilitate subsequent positioning of the terminal device.

[0046] The fifth aspect of the embodiments of the present application provides a communication method, and the communication method comprises the following steps:

[0047] The source access network device receives a positioning information request message from the positioning device. Then, the source access network device sends a positioning information response message to the positioning device. The positioning information response message comprises at least one of the following: information used to indicate that the positioning device requests the SRS to be configured for the terminal device again, the terminal device is in an inactive state; information used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access network device, the terminal device is in an inactive state; information used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the source access network device, the terminal device is in an inactive state; and information used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in an inactive state.

[0048] In this embodiment, the source access network device sends a positioning information response message to the positioning device. The positioning information response message includes at least one of the following: information indicating that the positioning device re-requests the source access network device to configure SRS for the terminal device; information indicating that the terminal device leaves the source access network device; information indicating that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the source access network device; and information indicating that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in an inactive state. In this way, the positioning device does not understand that the terminal device cannot be configured with SRS in a case where the terminal device is in a signal coverage range of the source access network device, thereby causing the positioning device to believe that the terminal device cannot be positioned. The positioning device can re-request the source access network device to configure SRS for the terminal device in combination with the positioning response message, so as to facilitate subsequent positioning of the terminal device.

[0049] In a possible implementation, the method further includes: the source access network device sending a paging message to the first access network device; and the paging message including at least one of the following: first information, second information, or third information; the first information being used to indicate that the paging message is used for positioning of the terminal device; the second information being used to request positioning information of the terminal device; and the third information being used to request the source access network device to configure SRS for the terminal device.

[0050] In this possible implementation, the first access network device can learn a reason or purpose of paging by the source access network device through at least one of the first information, the second information, or the third information included in the paging message. In this way, the first access network device can page the terminal device and configure SRS for the terminal device. Further, after the first access network device completes configuring SRS for the terminal device, the first access network device can release the terminal device as early as possible, so that the terminal device enters or is in an inactive state, thereby avoiding energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0051] In another possible implementation, before the source access network device sends the positioning information response message to the positioning device, the method further includes: the source access network device receiving a UE context release message from the first access network device.

[0052] In this possible implementation, after the source access network device receives the UE context release message from the first access network device for the terminal device, the source access network device can determine that the terminal device has accessed the first access network device. The source access network device sends the positioning information response message to the positioning device. When the positioning device re-requests the source access network device to configure SRS for the terminal device, the terminal device has entered a connected state. Then, the positioning device can successfully request the first access network device to configure SRS for the terminal device, so as to facilitate subsequent positioning of the terminal device by the positioning device.

[0053] The sixth aspect of the embodiments of the present application provides a communication method, and the communication method includes:

[0054] The source access network device receives a positioning information request message from the positioning device. The source access network device sends a positioning information failure message to the positioning device. The positioning information failure message includes a cause. The cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access network device, or the terminal device is in an inactive state, or the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the source access network device, or the terminal device is in an inactive state. The source access network device sends the positioning information failure message to the positioning device. The positioning information failure message includes a cause. The cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access network device, or the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the source access network device, or the terminal device is in an inactive state. In this way, the positioning device does not understand that the SRS cannot be configured for the terminal device in the case that the terminal device is in the signal coverage of the source access network device, and thus the positioning device considers that the terminal device cannot be positioned. The positioning device can re-request the SRS to be configured for the terminal device in combination with the positioning response message, so as to facilitate subsequent positioning of the terminal device.

[0055] In the embodiment, the source access network device sends the positioning information failure message to the positioning device. The positioning information failure message includes a cause. The cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access network device, or the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the source access network device, or the terminal device is in an inactive state. In this way, the positioning device does not understand that the SRS cannot be configured for the terminal device in the case that the terminal device is in the signal coverage of the source access network device, and thus the positioning device considers that the terminal device cannot be positioned. The positioning device can re-request the SRS to be configured for the terminal device in combination with the positioning response message, so as to facilitate subsequent positioning of the terminal device.

[0056] In a possible implementation manner, the method further includes: the source access network device sends a paging message to the first access network device; the paging message includes at least one of the following: first information, second information, or third information; the first information is used to indicate that the paging message is used for positioning of the terminal device; the second information is used to request the positioning information of the terminal device; and the third information is used to request the SRS to be configured for the terminal device.

[0057] In the possible implementation manner, the first access network device can learn the cause or purpose of the paging of the source access network device through at least one of the first information, the second information, or the third information included in the paging message. In this way, the first access network device can page the terminal device and configure the SRS for the terminal device. Further, after the first access network device completes the configuration of the SRS for the terminal device, the first access network device can release the terminal device as soon as possible, so that the terminal device enters or is in an inactive state, thereby avoiding energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0058] In another possible implementation manner, before the source access network device sends the positioning information failure message to the positioning device, the method further includes: the source access network device receives a UE context release message from the first access network device.

[0059] In the possible implementation, after the source access network device receives the UE context release message for the terminal device from the first access network device, the source access network device can determine that the terminal device has accessed the first access network device. The source access network device sends the positioning information failure message to the positioning device. When the positioning device re-requests the source access network device to request the terminal device to configure the SRS, the terminal device has entered the connected state. Then, the positioning device can successfully request the first access network device to request the terminal device to configure the SRS, so as to facilitate the positioning device to subsequently perform positioning on the terminal device.

[0060] The seventh aspect of the embodiment of the present application provides a communication device, and the communication device comprises:

[0061] a sending unit configured to send a UE context obtaining request message to a source access network device;

[0062] a receiving unit configured to receive a UE context obtaining response message from the source access network device, wherein the UE context obtaining response message comprises reference information used for configuring an SRS of the terminal device, and / or information used for indicating that the SRS is configured for the terminal device, and the terminal device is in an inactive state;

[0063] a processing unit configured to determine SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to the reference information and / or the information used for indicating that the SRS is configured for the terminal device;

[0064] the sending unit is further configured to send the SRS configuration information to the terminal device by the first access network device.

[0065] In a possible implementation, the reference information comprises information of a sounding reference signal transmission characteristic, and the information of the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic comprises at least one of the following: a transmission period of the SRS recommended by the positioning device for the terminal device, a bandwidth of the SRS, or a transmission frequency point of the SRS.

[0066] In another possible implementation, the UE context obtaining response message comprises a routing identifier, and the routing identifier is used for identifying the positioning device.

[0067] In another possible implementation, the UE context obtaining request message comprises any one of the following: first information or second information; the first information is used for requesting the reference information; and the second information is used for requesting positioning information of the terminal device.

[0068] In another possible implementation, the receiving unit is further configured to:

[0069] receive a paging message from the source access network device; the paging message comprises at least one of: third information, reference information, fourth information, or fifth information; the third information is used to indicate that the paging message is for positioning the terminal device; the fourth information is used to request positioning information of the terminal device; and the fifth information is used to request configuration of SRS for the terminal device.

[0070] In another possible implementation, the paging message further comprises a routing identifier, and the routing identifier is used to identify the positioning device.

[0071] In another possible implementation, the sending unit is specifically configured to:

[0072] send, to the terminal device, an RRC release message, and the RRC release message comprises the SRS configuration information.

[0073] In another possible implementation, the sending unit is further configured to:

[0074] send, to the source access network device, a UE context release message, and the UE context release message comprises the SRS configuration information.

[0075] An eighth aspect of the embodiment of the present application provides a communication apparatus, and the communication apparatus comprises:

[0076] a receiving unit, configured to receive an acquire UE context request message sent by a first access network device;

[0077] a sending unit, configured to send, to the first access network device, an acquire UE context response message, and the acquire UE context response message comprises reference information used to configure a sounding reference signal (SRS) of the terminal device and / or information used to indicate configuration of the SRS for the terminal device, and the terminal device is in an inactive state.

[0078] In a possible implementation, the reference information comprises information of sounding reference signal transmission characteristics, and the information of sounding reference signal transmission characteristics comprises at least one of: a transmission period of the SRS recommended by the positioning device for the terminal device, a bandwidth of the SRS, or a transmission frequency point of the SRS.

[0079] In another possible implementation, the acquire UE context response message comprises a routing identifier, and the routing identifier is used to identify the positioning device.

[0080] In another possible implementation, the acquire UE context request message comprises any one of: first information or second information; the first information is used to request the reference information; and the second information is used to request positioning information of the terminal device.

[0081] In another possible implementation, the sending unit is further configured to:

[0082] sending a paging message to the first access network device; the paging message comprises any one of the following: the third information, the reference information, the fourth information, or the fifth information; the third information is used to indicate that the paging message is used for positioning the terminal device; the fourth information is used to request the positioning information of the terminal device; and the fifth information is used to request to configure the SRS for the terminal device.

[0083] In another possible implementation, the receiving unit is further configured to:

[0084] receiving a UE context release message from the first access network device, the UE context release message comprising the SRS configuration information;

[0085] The sending unit is further configured to:

[0086] sending the SRS configuration information to the positioning device.

[0087] The ninth aspect of the embodiment of the present application provides a communication apparatus, which comprises:

[0088] The sending unit is configured to send an RRC resume request message to the first access network device.

[0089] The receiving unit is configured to receive an RRC release message from the first access network device, the RRC release message comprising the SRS configuration information, which is determined by the first access network device according to the reference information used to configure the SRS of the terminal device.

[0090] In a possible implementation, the reference information comprises information of a sounding reference signal transmission characteristic, and the information of the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic comprises at least one of the following: a transmission period of the SRS configured by the positioning device for the terminal device, or a bandwidth of the SRS.

[0091] The tenth aspect of the embodiment of the present application provides a communication apparatus, which comprises:

[0092] The sending unit is configured to send a positioning information request message to the access network device.

[0093] The receiving unit is configured to receive a positioning information response message from the access network device, the positioning information response message comprising at least one of the following:

[0094] information used to indicate that the positioning device re-requests to configure the SRS for the terminal device, the terminal device being in an inactive state;

[0095] information used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the access network device, the terminal device being in the inactive state;

[0096] information used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the access network device, the terminal device being in the inactive state; or

[0097] Information for instructing a terminal device to leave an access network device in an inactive state.

[0098] An eleventh aspect of an embodiment of the present application provides a communication apparatus, the communication apparatus comprising:

[0099] a sending unit configured to send a positioning information request message to an access network device;

[0100] a receiving unit configured to receive a positioning information failure message from the access network device, the positioning information failure message comprising a cause;

[0101] the cause is used to instruct the terminal device to leave the access network device, and the terminal device is in an inactive state; or

[0102] the cause is used to instruct the terminal device to leave a cell managed by the access network device, and the terminal device is in an inactive state; or

[0103] the cause is used to instruct the terminal device to leave the access network device in an inactive state.

[0104] A twelfth aspect of an embodiment of the present application provides a communication apparatus, the communication apparatus comprising:

[0105] a receiving unit configured to receive a positioning information request message from a positioning device;

[0106] a sending unit configured to send a positioning information response message to the positioning device, the positioning information response message comprising at least one of the following:

[0107] information for instructing the positioning device to re-request configuration of a sounding reference signal (SRS) for a terminal device, the terminal device being in an inactive state;

[0108] information for instructing the terminal device to leave a source access network device, the terminal device being in an inactive state;

[0109] information for instructing the terminal device to leave a cell managed by the source access network device, the terminal device being in an inactive state; or

[0110] information for instructing the terminal device to leave the source access network device in an inactive state.

[0111] In a possible implementation manner, the sending unit is further configured to:

[0112] send a paging message to a first access network device;

[0113] the paging message comprises at least one of the following: first information, second information, or third information; the first information is used to instruct that the paging message is used for positioning of the terminal device; the second information is used to request positioning information of the terminal device; and the third information is used to request configuration of an SRS for the terminal device.

[0114] In another possible implementation form of the method, the receiving further comprises:

[0115] receiving a UE context release message from the first access network device.

[0116] The thirteenth aspect of the embodiments of the present application provides a communication apparatus, the communication apparatus comprising:

[0117] a receiving unit, configured to receive a positioning information request message from a positioning device;

[0118] a sending unit, configured to send a positioning information failure message to the positioning device, the positioning information failure message comprising a cause;

[0119] the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access network device, and the terminal device is in an inactive state; or

[0120] the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the source access network device, and the terminal device is in an inactive state; or

[0121] the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in an inactive state.

[0122] In a possible implementation form of the method, the sending further comprises:

[0123] sending a paging message to the first access network device;

[0124] the paging message comprises at least one of the following: first information, second information, or third information; the first information is used to indicate that the paging message is used for positioning of the terminal device; the second information is used to request positioning information of the terminal device; and the third information is used to request configuration of SRS for the terminal device.

[0125] In another possible implementation form of the method, the receiving further comprises:

[0126] receiving a UE context release message from the first access network device.

[0127] The fourteenth aspect of the embodiments of the present application provides a communication apparatus, the communication apparatus comprising: a processor, a memory, and a transceiver connected with the processor. The memory stores computer programs or computer instructions. The processor is further configured to invoke and run the computer programs or computer instructions stored in the memory, so that the processor implements any one of the implementation forms in any one of the first aspect to the sixth aspect.

[0128] Optionally, the processor is configured to control the transceiver to perform any one of the implementation forms in any one of the first aspect to the sixth aspect.

[0129] The embodiment of the present application provides a computer program product including computer instructions, and when the computer instructions are run on a computer, the computer is caused to execute any one of the implementation manners of the first aspect to the sixth aspect.

[0130] The embodiment of the present application provides a computer program product including computer instructions, and when the computer instructions are run on a computer, the computer is caused to execute any one of the implementation manners of the first aspect to the sixth aspect.

[0131] The embodiment of the present application provides a communication device including a network device, a terminal device or a chip, and the communication device includes a processor configured to invoke computer programs or computer instructions in a memory to cause the processor to execute any one of the implementation manners of the first aspect to the sixth aspect.

[0132] Optionally, the processor is coupled with the memory through an interface.

[0133] The embodiment of the present application provides a communication system including the communication device of the seventh aspect and the communication device of the eighth aspect; or the communication system includes the communication device of the tenth aspect and the communication device of the twelfth aspect; or the communication system includes the communication device of the eleventh aspect and the communication device of the thirteenth aspect.

[0134] From the above technical solutions, the embodiment of the present application has the following advantages:

[0135] According to the above technical solution, the first access network device sends the UE context acquisition request message to the source access network device. Then, the first access network device receives the UE context acquisition response message from the source access network device. The UE context acquisition response message includes reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device. The terminal device is in an inactive state. The first access network device determines the SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to the reference information. The first access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device. Therefore, the terminal device is in an inactive state. The first access network device can acquire the reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device in the process of requesting the context of the terminal device from the source access network device. Then, the first access network device determines the SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to the reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device. The first access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device, thereby realizing the configuration of the SRS for the terminal device. In this way, in the case that the terminal device is in an inactive state, the positioning device can successfully request the configuration of the SRS for the terminal device, so as to facilitate the positioning of the terminal device by the positioning device. That is, the technical solution of the embodiment of the present application avoids the problem that the positioning of the terminal device by the positioning device fails due to the failure of the positioning device to request the SRS for the terminal device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0136] Figure 1 An embodiment of a communication system of the present application;

[0137] Figure 2A An embodiment of a communication method of the present application;

[0138] Figure 2B Another embodiment of a communication method of the present application;

[0139] Figure 2C Another embodiment of a communication method of the present application;

[0140] Figure 3 Another embodiment of a communication method of the present application;

[0141] Figure 4 Another embodiment of a communication method of the present application;

[0142] Figure 5 An embodiment of a communication apparatus of the present application;

[0143] Figure 6 Another embodiment of a communication apparatus of the present application;

[0144] Figure 7 Another embodiment of a communication apparatus of the present application;

[0145] Figure 8 An embodiment of a terminal device of the present application;

[0146] Figure 9 An embodiment of a communication system of the present application;

[0147] Figure 10 Another embodiment of a communication system of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0148] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be described clearly and completely below with reference to the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some of the embodiments of the present application, but not all the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative work fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0149] The term "and / or" appearing in the present application can be a description of the association relationship of the associated objects, which means that there can be three relationships, for example, A and / or B can represent the following three cases: A exists alone, A and B exist together, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in the present application generally represents that the front and rear associated objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0150] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system of an embodiment of the present application. The communication system includes a terminal device 101, a next generation node B (gNB) 102, an access and mobility management function (AMF) 103, and a location management function (LMF) device 104.

[0151] The terminal device 101 is connected to the gNB 102 of the access network through an NR-Uu interface. Figure 1 In the communication system shown, the core network includes the AMF 103 and the LMF 104. The gNB 102 communicates with the AMF 103 through an NG-C interface. The AMF 103 communicates with the LMF 104 through an NL1 interface, and the AMF 103 serves as a router for communication between the gNB 102 and the LMF 104. The LMF 104 is used for positioning calculation and management of the location of the terminal device 101.

[0152] The above Figure 1 Only an example in which the communication system includes the gNB 102 is shown. In actual applications, the communication system can further include more base stations, or the communication system can only include one base station, which is not limited in the present application.

[0153] The access network device and the terminal device of the communication system provided by the embodiments of the present application are described below.

[0154] The gNB 102 is an access network device in the access network. The access network device is a device deployed in the wireless access network to provide wireless communication function for the terminal device. The access network device is a base station, and the base station is various forms of macro base station, micro base station (also known as small station), relay station, access point (AP), wearable device, vehicle-mounted device, etc. The base station can also be a transmission and reception point (TRP), transmission measurement function (TMF), etc. Illustratively, the base station involved in the embodiments of the present application can be a base station in new radio (NR). Among them, the base station in 5G NR can also be called a transmission reception point (TRP) or a transmission point (TP) or a next generation node B (ngNB) as shown in the above Figure 1 Figure 1 The eNB in the long term evolution (LTE) system as shown in the above

[0155] The terminal device, also known as user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), etc., is a device including wireless communication function (providing voice / data connectivity to users), such as handheld devices with wireless connection function, or vehicle-mounted devices, etc. At present, some examples of terminal devices are: mobile phone, tablet computer, notebook computer, palm computer, mobile internet device (MID), wearable device, virtual reality (VR) device, augmented reality (AR) device, wireless terminal in industrial control, wireless terminal in self driving, wireless terminal in remote medical surgery, wireless terminal in smart grid, wireless terminal in transportation safety, wireless terminal in smart city, or wireless terminal in smart home, etc.​

[0156] AMF103 is responsible for access control, registration management, service management, and mobility management of terminal devices accessing the network.

[0157] In this application embodiment, the name of AMF103 may change as the communication system evolves. In existing or future communication systems, any functional network element with a similar name to AMF103 can be understood as AMF103 in this application embodiment, and is applicable to the communication method provided in this application embodiment.

[0158] In this embodiment, the LMF device is the name used in existing communication systems. In future communication systems, the name of the LMF device may change as the communication system evolves. Therefore, in the following description, the LMF device will be referred to as a positioning device in this embodiment. This positioning device is used to calculate the location of a terminal device. In existing or future communication systems, any functional network element with a similar name to this positioning device can be understood as the positioning device in this embodiment. Furthermore, it is applicable to the communication method provided in this embodiment.

[0159] Currently, in uplink positioning technology, the positioning device requests SRS configuration for the terminal device from the last serving RAN. The terminal device is in an inactive state. The last serving RAN responds to the positioning device's SRS configuration request. The last serving RAN configures the terminal device's SRS configuration information and sends the SRS configuration information to the positioning device to enable the positioning device to locate the terminal device.

[0160] However, the terminal device is in an inactive state. When the terminal device moves from the most recently serving access network device to another new access network device, the positioning device will still request the most recently serving access network device to configure SRS for the terminal device. However, when the terminal device moves from the most recently serving access network device to another new access network device, the most recently serving access network device is unable to configure SRS for the terminal device. This causes the positioning device's request to configure SRS for the terminal device to fail, or causes the positioning device to believe that it cannot configure SRS for the terminal device, thus causing the positioning device to fail to locate the terminal device.

[0161] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a communication method to solve the problem that the positioning device fails to configure SRS for the terminal device when the terminal device is in an inactive state, thereby enabling the positioning device to locate the terminal device. Please refer to [link / reference] for details. Figure 2A , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The following is a description of the embodiments shown.

[0162] The technical solutions of the present application will be described below in connection with specific embodiments.

[0163] Please refer to Figure 2A , Figure 2A is an embodiment of the communication method of the embodiments of the present application. In Figure 2A , the communication method comprises:

[0164] 201. The first access network device sends a retrieve UE context request message to the source access network device. Correspondingly, the source access network device receives the retrieve UE context request message from the first access network device.

[0165] The retrieve UE context request message is used to request the context of the terminal device. The terminal device is in an inactive state.

[0166] When the terminal device moves from the signal coverage of the source access network device to the signal coverage of the first access network device, the terminal device is in the inactive state. That is, the terminal device camps on the first access network device, and the first access network device can be referred to as the camped RAN of the terminal device. The source access network device is the access network device that has served the terminal device most recently. The source access network device stores the context of the terminal device and the NG connection associated with the terminal device between the source access network device and the AMF. The source access network device can be referred to as the last serving RAN of the terminal device. The first access network device requests the context of the terminal device from the source access network device.

[0167] Optionally, the retrieve UE context request message comprises at least one of the following: first information or second information.

[0168] The first information is used to request reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device. For relevant introduction of the reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device, please refer to the relevant introduction in step 202 below, which will not be described in detail here.

[0169] The second information is used to request the positioning information of the terminal device.

[0170] For example, the first information comprises an information element in the retrieve UE context request message. The first access network device requests the reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device through the information element in the retrieve UE context request message.

[0171] For example, the first information comprises an SRS information information element. The first access network device requests the reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device through the SRS information information element.

[0172] For example, the first information comprises indication information. The first access network device requests the reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device through the indication information.

[0173] For example, the value of the indication information is "true", which indicates that the reference information for requesting the configuration of the SRS of the terminal device is requested. For example, the value of the indication information is "1", which indicates that the reference information for requesting the configuration of the SRS of the terminal device is requested.

[0174] In this embodiment, the first information can indicate the request for the reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device in an explicit or implicit manner, which is not limited in the present application.

[0175] In this embodiment, the first information can indicate the request for the reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device in a direct or indirect manner, which is not limited in the present application.

[0176] For example, the second information comprises an information element in the retrieve UE context request message. The first access network device requests the positioning information of the terminal device through the information element in the retrieve UE context request message.

[0177] For example, the second information comprises a positioning information information element. The first access network device requests the positioning information of the terminal device through the positioning information information element.

[0178] For example, the second information comprises indication information. The first access network device requests the positioning information of the terminal device through the indication information.

[0179] For example, the value of the indication information is "true", which indicates that the positioning information of the terminal device is requested. For example, the value of the indication information is "1", which indicates that the positioning information of the terminal device is requested.

[0180] In this embodiment, the second information can indicate the request for the positioning information of the terminal device in an explicit or implicit manner, which is not limited in the present application.

[0181] In this embodiment, the second information can indicate the request for the positioning information of the terminal device in a direct or indirect manner, which is not limited in the present application.

[0182] 202. The source access network device sends a retrieve UE context response message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the retrieve UE context response message from the source access network device.

[0183] The acquiring UE context response message comprises at least one of the following: reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device, or information for indicating that the SRS is configured for the terminal device.

[0184] For example, the reference information comprises at least one of the following: a recommended transmission period of the SRS configured for the terminal device, a bandwidth of the SRS, or a transmission frequency point of the SRS.

[0185] Optionally, the reference information comprises information of a sounding reference signal transmission characteristic (SRS transmission characteristic).

[0186] The positioning device sends a positioning information request message to the source access network device. The positioning information request message is used to request that the SRS is configured for the terminal device. The positioning device can be an LMF device.

[0187] In a possible implementation, if the positioning information request message does not comprise a sounding reference signal transmission characteristic information element, the source access network device determines information for indicating that the SRS is configured for the terminal device. Then, the source access network device sends the information for indicating that the SRS is configured for the terminal device to the first access network device through the acquiring UE context response message.

[0188] In another possible implementation, if the positioning information request message comprises a sounding reference signal transmission characteristic information element, the source access network device determines information of a sounding reference signal transmission characteristic according to the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic information element. Then, the source access network device sends the information of the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic to the first access network device through the acquiring UE context response message.

[0189] Optionally, in this implementation, the source access network device can also determine information for indicating that the SRS is configured for the terminal device. Then, the source access network device sends the information for indicating that the SRS is configured for the terminal device to the first access network device through the acquiring UE context response message.

[0190] In another possible implementation, if the positioning information request message comprises a sounding reference signal transmission characteristic information element, the source access network device determines information for indicating that the SRS is configured for the terminal device. Then, the source access network device sends the information for indicating that the SRS is configured for the terminal device to the first access network device through the acquiring UE context response message.

[0191] Optionally, a relationship between the information of the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic and content of the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic information element comprised by the positioning information request message comprises any one of the following:

[0192] 1. The information of the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic comprises all content of the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic information element comprised by the positioning information request message.

[0193] For example, the SRS transmission characteristic information element includes a transmission period and a bandwidth of the SRS recommended by the positioning device for the terminal device. The SRS transmission characteristic information includes the transmission period and the bandwidth of the SRS recommended by the positioning device for the terminal device.

[0194] 2、The SRS transmission characteristic information includes part of the content of the SRS transmission characteristic information element included in the positioning information request message.

[0195] For example, the SRS transmission characteristic information element includes a transmission period and a bandwidth of the SRS recommended by the positioning device for the terminal device. The SRS transmission characteristic information includes the transmission period of the SRS recommended by the positioning device for the terminal device.

[0196] 3、The SRS transmission characteristic information includes part of the content of the SRS transmission characteristic information element included in the positioning information request message and newly added content.

[0197] For example, the SRS transmission characteristic information element includes a transmission period and a bandwidth of the SRS recommended by the positioning device for the terminal device. The SRS transmission characteristic information includes the transmission period, the bandwidth of the SRS recommended by the positioning device for the terminal device, and a transmission frequency point of the SRS recommended by the source access network device for the terminal device.

[0198] 4、The SRS transmission characteristic information includes information obtained by the source access network device changing the content of the SRS transmission characteristic information element.

[0199] For example, the SRS transmission characteristic information element includes a transmission period A and a bandwidth B of the SRS recommended by the positioning device. The source access network device changes the transmission period of the SRS to C and changes the bandwidth to D. The SRS transmission characteristic information includes a transmission period C and a bandwidth D of the SRS recommended by the source access network device for the terminal device. A, B, C, and D are all greater than 0.

[0200] The above only shows several possible relationships between the SRS transmission characteristic information and the content of the SRS transmission characteristic information element, and does not belong to the limitation of the present application. Other possible relationships are also applicable to the present application.

[0201] In the embodiment, the SRS transmission characteristic information can be represented in the form of an information element. For example, the SRS transmission characteristic information includes an SRS transmission characteristic information element.

[0202] For example, the information for indicating the SRS configured for the terminal device includes an information element of the UE context acquisition response message.

[0203] For example, the information used to indicate that the terminal device is configured with SRS includes an SRS required (or SRS requested) information element, an SRS configuration required (or SRS configuration requested) information element, a positioning information required (or positioning information requested) information element, and the like.

[0204] For example, the information used to indicate that the terminal device is configured with SRS includes indication information.

[0205] For example, when the value of the indication information is "true", it indicates that the terminal device is configured with SRS. For another example, when the value of the indication information is "1", it indicates that the terminal device is configured with SRS.

[0206] In this embodiment, the information used to indicate that the terminal device is configured with SRS can indicate that the terminal device is configured with SRS in a displayed manner. For example, the source access network device displays the indication that the first access network device is configured with SRS for the terminal device by obtaining the indication information included in the UE context response message.

[0207] In this embodiment, the information used to indicate that the terminal device is configured with SRS can indicate that the terminal device is configured with SRS in an implicit manner. For example, the source access network device implicitly indicates that the first access network device is configured with SRS for the terminal device by obtaining the sounding reference signal transmission property information element included in the UE context response message.

[0208] In this embodiment, the information used to indicate that the terminal device is configured with SRS can indicate that the terminal device is configured with SRS in a direct manner. For example, the source access network device directly indicates that the first access network device is configured with SRS for the terminal device by obtaining the indication information of the UE context response message.

[0209] In this embodiment, the information used to indicate that the terminal device is configured with SRS can indicate that the terminal device is configured with SRS in an indirect manner. For example, the source access network device indirectly indicates that the first access network device is configured with SRS for the terminal device by obtaining the sounding reference signal transmission property information element included in the UE context response message.

[0210] Optionally, the UE context response message further includes a routing ID. The routing ID is used to identify the positioning device.

[0211] Specifically, the routing identifier is sent by a core network device (for example, an AMF) in the core network to a source access network device. The routing identifier is used by the core network device to identify a positioning device. The positioning device can be an LMF device. After the first access network device obtains the routing identifier, the first access network device determines SRS configuration information of the terminal device. Then, the first access network device can send the SRS configuration information of the terminal device to the positioning device through the core network device. The first access network device carries the routing identifier in a message used to send the SRS configuration information. The core network device identifies the positioning device corresponding to the routing identifier through the routing identifier, and forwards the SRS configuration sent by the first access network device to the positioning device to the positioning device.

[0212] In the embodiment, the routing identifier includes a routing identifier information element in the get UE context response message.

[0213] 203、The first access network device determines SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to reference information used to configure SRS of the terminal device and / or information used to indicate that SRS is configured for the terminal device.

[0214] Optionally, the SRS configuration information includes at least one of a transmission period, a bandwidth, or a transmission frequency point of the SRS configured by the first access network device for the terminal device.

[0215] In a possible implementation manner, the get UE context response message includes reference information used to configure SRS of the terminal device. The first access network device determines SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to the reference information used to configure SRS of the terminal device. In this implementation manner, if the get UE context response message further includes information used to indicate that SRS is configured for the terminal device. Then the first access network device can determine that SRS is configured for the terminal device according to the information used to indicate that SRS is configured for the terminal device. Then, the first access network device determines SRS configuration information of the terminal device in combination with the reference information used to configure SRS of the terminal device.

[0216] For example, the reference information includes recommended transmission period, bandwidth, and transmission frequency point of the SRS configured for the terminal device. The first access network device can determine the transmission period, bandwidth, and transmission frequency point of the SRS of the terminal device based on the reference information, that is, determine the SRS configuration information of the terminal device. The transmission period, bandwidth, and transmission frequency point of the SRS configured by the first access network device for the terminal device are the same as or different from the recommended transmission period, bandwidth, and transmission frequency point of the reference information. The specific application is not limited.

[0217] In another possible implementation manner, the UE context obtaining response message comprises information used for indicating that the SRS is configured for the terminal device. The first access network device determines, according to the information used for indicating that the SRS is configured for the terminal device, that the SRS is configured for the terminal device. Then, the first access network device determines SRS configuration information for the terminal device.

[0218] 204. The first access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the SRS configuration information from the first access network device.

[0219] In step 204, the first access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device in multiple manners, and details can be referred to relevant introduction of the following Figure 2B , which will not be repeated here.

[0220] After the terminal device receives the SRS configuration information of the terminal device, the terminal device sends the SRS according to the SRS configuration information. The positioning device obtains the SRS configuration information of the terminal device. The positioning device can select a measurement access network device, and measures the SRS sent by the terminal device through the measurement access network device. Then, the measurement access network device reports the measurement result to the positioning device. The positioning device performs positioning on the terminal device according to the measurement result.

[0221] Optionally, the embodiment further comprises steps 205 to 207. Steps 205 to 207 are executed before step 201.

[0222] 205. The source access network device sends a first paging (RAN paging) message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the first paging message from the source access network device.

[0223] Specifically, the source access network device sends the first paging message to multiple access network devices in an access network paging area, to instruct the multiple access network devices to page the terminal device. The multiple access network devices comprise the first access network device.

[0224] Optionally, the first paging message comprises at least one of the following: third information, reference information, fourth information, or fifth information.

[0225] The third information is used for indicating that the paging message is used for positioning of the terminal device.

[0226] The fourth information is used for requesting positioning information of the terminal device.

[0227] The fifth information is used for requesting configuration of the SRS for the terminal device.

[0228] Details of the reference information can be referred to relevant introduction of step 202.

[0229] For example, the third information comprises an information element in the first paging message.

[0230] For example, the third information comprises a positioning information element, a paging purpose information element, or a paging cause information element. For example, the paging purpose information element takes a value of positioning. The paging cause information element takes a value of positioning.

[0231] For example, the third information comprises indication information.

[0232] For example, when the indication information is “true”, it indicates that the paging message is used for positioning the terminal device. Alternatively, when the indication information is “1”, it indicates that the paging message is used for positioning the terminal device.

[0233] From the above examples of the third information, it can be seen that, in the embodiment, the third information can indicate, in an explicit or implicit manner, that the paging message is used for positioning the terminal device, which is not limited in the present application.

[0234] From the above examples of the third information, it can be seen that, in the embodiment, the third information can indicate, in a direct or indirect manner, that the paging message is used for positioning the terminal device, which is not limited in the present application.

[0235] For example, the fourth information comprises an information element in the first paging message.

[0236] For example, the fourth information comprises a positioning information element, a paging purpose information element, or a paging cause information element. For example, the paging purpose information element takes a value of positioning information. The paging cause information element takes a value of positioning information.

[0237] For example, the fourth information comprises indication information.

[0238] For example, when the indication information is “true”, it indicates that the positioning information of the terminal device is requested. Alternatively, when the indication information is “1”, it indicates that the positioning information of the terminal device is requested.

[0239] From the above examples of the fourth information, it can be seen that, in the embodiment, the fourth information can indicate, in an explicit or implicit manner, that the positioning information of the terminal device is requested, which is not limited in the present application.

[0240] From the above examples of the fourth information, it can be seen that, in the embodiment, the fourth information can indicate, in a direct or indirect manner, that the positioning information of the terminal device is requested, which is not limited in the present application.

[0241] For example, the fifth information comprises an information element in the first paging message.

[0242] For example, the fifth information comprises an SRS required (or SRS requested) information element, an SRS configuration required (or SRS configuration requested) information element, a positioning information required (or positioning information requested) information element, a paging purpose information element, or a paging cause information element, etc. For example, the paging purpose information element takes any one of the following values: configure SRS, request SRS, or request to configure SRS. The paging cause information element takes any one of the following values: configure SRS, request SRS, or request to configure SRS.

[0243] For example, the fifth information comprises indication information.

[0244] For example, when the indication information is "true", it means that the terminal device is requested to configure SRS. Or, when the indication information is "1", it means that the terminal device is requested to configure SRS.

[0245] As can be seen from the above examples of the fifth information, in the embodiment, the fifth information can indicate that the terminal device is requested to configure SRS in an explicit or implicit manner, which is not limited in the present application.

[0246] As can be seen from the above examples of the fifth information, in the embodiment, the fifth information can indicate that the terminal device is requested to configure SRS in a direct or indirect manner, which is not limited in the present application.

[0247] In the embodiment, the reference information can be included in only one of the UE context response message in step 202 and the first paging message in step 205.

[0248] For example, the UE context response message in step 202 includes the reference information, and the first paging message in step 205 does not include the reference information. For another example, the UE context response message in step 202 does not include the reference information, and the first paging message in step 205 includes the reference information. Of course, the UE context response message in step 202 and the first paging message in step 205 can both include the reference information, which is not limited in the present application.

[0249] Optionally, the first paging message further comprises a routing identifier. The routing identifier is used to identify the positioning device. For details, please refer to the foregoing description of step 202.

[0250] In this embodiment, the UE context response message in step 202 and the first paging message in step 205 can only include the routing identifier in one message.

[0251] For example, the UE context response message in step 202 includes the routing identifier, and the first paging message in step 205 can not include the routing identifier. For another example, the UE context response message in step 202 does not include the routing identifier, and the first paging message in step 205 includes the routing identifier. Of course, the UE context response message in step 202 and the first paging message in step 205 can both include the routing identifier, which is not limited in the present application.

[0252] 206. The first access network device sends a second paging message to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the second paging message from the first access network device.

[0253] The second paging message includes the identifier of the terminal device, for example, a user equipment identity (UE ID).

[0254] The first access network device determines to page the terminal device according to the first paging message in step 205. Then, the first access network device pages the terminal device through the second paging message to instruct the terminal device to initiate an RRC resume request to the first access network device, so as to realize the access of the terminal device to the network.

[0255] 207. The terminal device sends an RRC resume request message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the RRC resume request message from the terminal device.

[0256] The following will be described in combination with Figure 2B The following will be described in combination with

[0257] Transmission mode one

[0258] Please refer to Figure 2B The step 204 specifically includes that the first access network device sends an RRC release message to the terminal device, and the RRC release message includes the SRS configuration information. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the RRC release message from the first access network device.

[0259] The terminal device initiates an RRC resume request to the first access network device in the step 207. The first access network device pages the terminal device for positioning of the terminal device or for configuring SRS for the terminal device, and the first access network device can send an RRC release message to the terminal device, so that the terminal device is in the inactive state. The energy consumption caused by the terminal device entering the connected state is avoided, and the first access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device through the RRC release message, so as to configure SRS for the terminal device. Moreover, the time delay of the first access network device sending the SRS configuration information to the terminal device is reduced, so that the SRS configuration information is sent to the terminal device earlier and faster. The additional time delay of the positioning bandwidth of the terminal device is avoided, and the positioning efficiency is improved.

[0260] The second sending mode

[0261] Referring to Figure 2B The step 204 specifically includes that the first access network device sends an RRC resume message to the terminal device, and the RRC resume message includes the SRS configuration information. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the RRC resume message from the first access network device.

[0262] The terminal device initiates an RRC resume request to the first access network device in the step 207, and the first access network device accepts the RRC resume request of the terminal device, so that the terminal device enters the connected state. Meanwhile, the first access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device through the RRC resume message, so as to configure SRS for the terminal device. Moreover, the time delay of the first access network device sending the SRS configuration information to the terminal device is reduced, so that the SRS configuration information is sent to the terminal device earlier and faster. The additional time delay of the positioning bandwidth of the terminal device is avoided, and the positioning efficiency is improved.

[0263] The third sending mode

[0264] Referring to Figure 2B The step 204 specifically includes that the first access network device sends an RRC resume message to the terminal device, and the RRC resume message includes the SRS configuration information. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the RRC resume message from the first access network device. Figure 2A The embodiment shown in the step 204a is executed after the step 202, and the step 204a is executed before the step 204.

[0265] 204a. The first access network device sends an RRC resume message to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the RRC resume message from the first access network device.

[0266] The terminal device initiates an RRC resume request to the first access network device in the step 207, and the first access network device accepts the RRC resume request of the terminal device, so that the terminal device enters the connected state.

[0267] Based on step 204a, step 204 specifically includes: the first access network device sends an RRC reconfigure message to the terminal device, and the RRC reconfigure message includes the SRS configuration information. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the RRC reconfigure message from the first access network device.

[0268] In the third sending mode, the first access network device accepts the RRC resume request of the terminal device; then, after the terminal device enters the connected state, the first access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device through an RRC reconfigure message, so as to configure the SRS for the terminal device.

[0269] Optionally, the embodiment further includes step 208.

[0270] For the first sending mode of Figure 2B , step 208 is executed after step 204 in the first sending mode of Figure 2B .

[0271] For the second sending mode of Figure 2B , step 208 is executed after step 204 in the second sending mode of Figure 2B .

[0272] For the third sending mode of Figure 2B , step 208 is executed after step 204a in the third sending mode of Figure 2B .

[0273] Step 208 and step 204 in the third sending mode of Figure 2B have no fixed execution order. For example, step 204 can be executed first and then step 208; or step 208 can be executed first and then step 204; or steps 204 and 208 can be executed simultaneously according to the situation, which is not limited in the present application.

[0274] 208. The first access network device sends a UE context release message to the source access network device. Correspondingly, the source access network device receives the UE context release message from the first access network device.

[0275] In the present embodiment, the source access network device can be determined according to the probe reference signal transmission characteristic information element included in the positioning information request message sent by the positioning device. Steps 209 and 210 are introduced below. Steps 209 and 210 are executed before step 205.

[0276] 209. The positioning device sends a positioning information request message to the source access network device. Correspondingly, the source access network device receives the positioning information request message from the positioning device.

[0277] The positioning information request message is used to request the SRS configuration for the terminal device. The positioning information request message can comprise a sounding reference signal transmission characteristics information element. For more information about the sounding reference signal transmission characteristics information element, please refer to the description of step 202.

[0278] 210. The source access network device sends a positioning information response message to the positioning device. Correspondingly, the positioning device receives the positioning information response message from the source access network device.

[0279] The source access network device feeds back the positioning information response message to the positioning device. In this way, the positioning device will not consider that the SRS cannot be configured for the terminal device, and thus the positioning device will not consider that the terminal device cannot be positioned. When the source access network device performs step 210, the first access network device has not configured the SRS for the terminal device, and the positioning information response message can not comprise the SRS configuration information of the terminal device. The SRS configuration information of the terminal device can be sent to the positioning device through other messages. For more information, please refer to the description of step 312. Figure 2C

[0280] Optionally, step 210 is performed after step 208.

[0281] ​In the embodiment, the first access network device sends a UE context obtaining request message to the source access network device. Then, the first access network device receives a UE context obtaining response message from the source access network device. The UE context obtaining response message includes reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device. The terminal device is in an inactive state. The first access network device determines SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to the reference information, and then sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device. As can be seen, the terminal device is in an inactive state, the terminal device moves from the source access network device to the first access network device, and the first access network device can obtain the reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device in the process of requesting the context of the terminal device. Then, the first access network device determines the SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to the reference information for configuring the SRS of the terminal device. The first access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the terminal device, thereby realizing the configuration of the SRS of the terminal device. In this way, in the case that the terminal device is in an inactive state, the positioning device can successfully request to configure the SRS of the terminal device, so as to facilitate the positioning device to position the terminal device. That is, the technical solution of the embodiment avoids the problem that the positioning device fails to position the terminal device due to the failure of the positioning device to request the SRS of the terminal device.

[0282] The above Figure 2A The embodiments shown in FIG. 2 illustrate steps 201 to 210. In actual applications, steps 201 to 210 are not necessarily all executed, and part or all of steps 201 to 210 can be executed according to requirements.

[0283] The above Figure 2A In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, in order for the positioning device to be able to position the terminal device, the positioning device obtains the SRS configuration information of the terminal device determined by the first access network device. The following shows several possible obtaining manners of the positioning device obtaining the SRS configuration information of the terminal device, which are introduced in combination with Figure 2C .

[0284] Obtaining manner one

[0285] In the obtaining manner one, the UE context release message of step 208 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 includes the SRS configuration information. Moreover, the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 further includes step 211, which is executed after step 208. Figure 2A Figure 2A

[0286] 211. The source access network device sends the SRS configuration information to the positioning device. Correspondingly, the positioning device receives the SRS configuration information from the source access network device.

[0287] ​​In a possible implementation, the step 211 specifically includes: the source access network device sending a positioning information update message to the positioning device. The positioning information update message includes the SRS configuration information. Correspondingly, the positioning device receives the positioning information update message from the source access network device.

[0288] In this implementation, the positioning device receives the positioning information update message of the source access network device. Then, the positioning device acquires the SRS configuration information of the terminal device through the positioning information update message.

[0289] In another possible implementation, the SRS configuration information is included in the positioning information response message in the step 210. That is, the step 211 and the step 210 are combined into: the source access network device sending a positioning information response message to the positioning device, and the positioning information response message including the SRS configuration information. Correspondingly, the positioning device receives the positioning information response message from the source access network device.

[0290] The source access network device acquires the SRS configuration information of the terminal device through the UE context release message. Then, the source access network device reports the SRS configuration information to the positioning device through the positioning information response message. That is, the positioning device acquires the SRS configuration information of the terminal device through the positioning information response message.

[0291] Acquisition mode two

[0292] In the acquisition mode two, the step 211 specifically includes: Figure 2A The embodiment shown in FIG. 2 further includes a step 212. The step 212 is performed after the step 203.

[0293] The step 212 includes: the first access network device sending the SRS configuration information to the positioning device. Correspondingly, the positioning device receives the SRS configuration information from the first access network device.

[0294] Optionally, the step 212 specifically includes: the first access network device sending a positioning information update message to the positioning device. The positioning information update message includes the SRS configuration information. The positioning device receives the positioning information update message from the first access network device.

[0295] In the acquisition mode two, the positioning device receives the positioning information update message of the first access network device. The positioning device acquires the SRS configuration information of the terminal device through the positioning information update message.

[0296] The above shows multiple possible acquisition manners of the positioning device acquiring the SRS configuration information of the terminal device. After the positioning device acquires the SRS configuration information of the terminal device, the positioning device can select multiple measurement access network devices, and measure the SRS sent by the terminal device through the measurement access network devices. Then, the measurement access network devices report the measurement results to the positioning device. Then, the positioning device performs positioning on the terminal device according to the measurement results.

[0297] The present application also provides an embodiment similar to the above Figure 2A embodiment. The difference lies in that the step 211 in the above Figure 2A embodiment is replaced by: the source access network device sends a positioning information failure message to the positioning device. Correspondingly, the positioning device receives the positioning information failure message from the source access network device.

[0298] Optionally, the positioning information failure message includes a cause. The cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access device; or the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the source access network device; or the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in an inactive state; or the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the source access network device in an inactive state. For related introduction of the cause included in the positioning information failure message, please refer to the related introduction of the step 402 in the above Figure 4 embodiment, which will not be described here again.

[0299] In this way, the positioning device will not think that the SRS cannot be configured for the terminal device, and thus the positioning device will not think that the terminal device cannot be positioned. When the source access network device performs the step 210, the first access network device has not configured the SRS for the terminal device, and the positioning information failure message can not include the SRS configuration information of the terminal device. The SRS configuration information of the terminal device can be sent to the positioning device through other messages. For related introduction, please refer to the above Figure 2C .

[0300] Optionally, the replaced step 211 is performed after the step 209.

[0301] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 3 for another embodiment schematic diagram of the communication method of the embodiment of the present application. In the Figure 3 , the communication method includes:

[0302] 301. The positioning device sends a positioning information request message to the source access network device. Correspondingly, the source access network device receives the positioning information request message from the positioning device.

[0303] The positioning information request message is used to request the SRS configuration for the terminal device. The positioning information request message can include a sounding reference signal transmission characteristic information element. For details of the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic information element, refer to the foregoing description of step 202 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2. Figure 2A The foregoing description of step 202 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 applies here.

[0304] In this embodiment, the terminal device is in an inactive state. The terminal device moves from the signal coverage of the source access network device to the signal coverage of the first access network device. That is, the terminal device camps on the first access network device, which can be referred to as the camped RAN of the terminal device. The source access network device is the access network device that has served the terminal device most recently. The context of the terminal device and the NG connection associated with the terminal device between the source access network device and the AMF are stored in the source access network device. The source access network device can be referred to as the last serving RAN of the terminal device.

[0305] 302. The source access network device sends a positioning information response message to the positioning device. Correspondingly, the positioning device receives the positioning information response message from the source access network device.

[0306] The positioning information response message includes at least one of the following:

[0307] 1. Information indicating that the positioning device rerequests the SRS configuration for the terminal device;

[0308] The re-requesting of the SRS configuration for the terminal device includes that the positioning device re-requests the SRS configuration for the terminal device from the serving access network device of the terminal device. The terminal device moves to the first access network device. If the terminal device accesses the first access network device, the first access network device is the serving access network device of the terminal device.

[0309] The positioning device sends a positioning information request message to the service access network device of the terminal device through the AMF. That is, the AMF determines the service access network device accessed by the terminal device and sends the positioning information request message to the service access network device. Therefore, the terminal device moves from the signal coverage range of the source access network device to the signal coverage range of the first access network device, and the terminal device accesses the first access network device. If the positioning device requests to configure SRS for the terminal device again, only the AMF can perceive that the service access network device of the terminal device changes. The AMF selects the first access network device currently accessed by the terminal device, and sends the positioning device request message requested by the positioning device again to the first access network device. The positioning device does not perceive which access network device the positioning information request messages requested before and after are sent to.

[0310] Therefore, for the positioning device, the source access network device can instruct the positioning device to request to configure SRS for the terminal device again. That is, instruct the positioning device to request the service access network device of the terminal device to configure SRS for the terminal device again.

[0311] For example, the information for instructing the positioning device to request to configure SRS for the terminal device again includes an information element of a positioning information response message.

[0312] For example, the information for instructing the positioning device to request to configure SRS for the terminal device again includes an SRS request (SRS required, or SRS requested) information element, an SRS configuration request information element (SRS configuration required, or SRS configuration requested), a positioning information request information element (positioning information required, or positioning information requested), and the like.

[0313] For example, the information for instructing the positioning device to request to configure SRS for the terminal device again includes indication information.

[0314] For example, the value of the indication information is “true”, which indicates that the positioning device is instructed to request to configure SRS for the terminal device again. For another example, the value of the indication information is “1”, which indicates that the positioning device is instructed to request to configure SRS for the terminal device again.

[0315] In this embodiment, the information for instructing the positioning device to request to configure SRS for the terminal device again can indicate the positioning device to request to configure SRS for the terminal device again in a displayed or implicit manner, which is not limited in the present application.

[0316] In this embodiment, the information for instructing the positioning device to re-request the SRS configuration for the terminal device can directly or implicitly instruct the positioning device to re-request the SRS configuration for the terminal device, which is not limited in the present application.

[0317] The source access network device instructs the positioning device to re-request the SRS configuration for the terminal device through the information for instructing the positioning device to re-request the SRS configuration for the terminal device. In this way, the positioning device does not understand that the SRS cannot be configured for the terminal device in the case that the terminal device is in the signal coverage of the source access network device, thereby causing the positioning device to believe that the terminal device cannot be positioned. The positioning device can re-request the serving access network device accessed by the terminal device to configure the SRS for the terminal device.

[0318] 2. Information for instructing the terminal device to leave the source access network device;

[0319] The terminal device moves from the signal coverage of the source access network device to the signal coverage of the first access network device. The source access network device can instruct the positioning device that the terminal device leaves the signal coverage of the source access network device. In this way, the positioning device can determine that the terminal device leaves the signal coverage of the source access network device or that the terminal device has moved to the signal coverage of the other access network device. That is, the positioning device can determine the location state of the terminal device. The positioning device does not understand that the SRS cannot be configured for the terminal device in the case that the terminal device is in the signal coverage of the source access network device, thereby causing the positioning device to believe that the terminal device cannot be positioned. The positioning device can re-request the serving access network device accessed by the terminal device to configure the SRS for the terminal device.

[0320] Specifically, the positioning device can re-request the serving access network device of the terminal device to configure the SRS for the terminal device through the AMF. The terminal device moves to the first access network device. If the terminal device accesses the first access network device, the first access network device is the serving access network device of the terminal device.

[0321] For example, the information for instructing the terminal device to leave the source access network device includes an information element of a positioning information response message. For example, the information for instructing the terminal device to leave the source access network device includes a UE left information element or a UE moved out information element.

[0322] For example, the information for instructing the terminal device to leave the source access network device includes indication information. For example, when the value of the indication information is "true", it indicates that the terminal device leaves the source access network device. For another example, when the value of the indication information is "1", it indicates that the terminal device leaves the source access network device.

[0323] In this embodiment, the information for indicating the terminal device to leave the cell managed by the source access network device can be in the form of explicit indication or implicit indication, which is not limited in the present application.

[0324] In this embodiment, the information for indicating the terminal device to leave the cell managed by the source access network device can be in the form of explicit indication or implicit indication, which is not limited in the present application.

[0325] 3. information for indicating the terminal device to leave the cell managed by the source access network device;

[0326] The terminal device moves from the cell managed by the source access network device to the cell managed by the first access network device. The source access network device can indicate the positioning device that the terminal device leaves the signal coverage of the source access network device. The positioning device can determine that the terminal device has left the cell managed by the source access network device or has moved to the cell managed by the other access network device, i.e., the positioning device can determine the location state of the terminal device. In this way, the positioning device will not understand that it is unable to configure SRS for the terminal device when the terminal device is in the signal coverage of the source access network device, thereby causing the positioning device to believe that it is unable to locate the terminal device. The positioning device can re-request the serving access network device accessed by the terminal device to configure SRS for the terminal device.

[0327] Specifically, the positioning device can re-request the serving access network device of the terminal device to configure SRS for the terminal device through the AMF. The terminal device moves to the first access network device. If the terminal device accesses the first access network device, the first access network device is the serving access network device of the terminal device.

[0328] For example, the information for indicating the terminal device to leave the cell managed by the source access network device includes an information element of a positioning information response message. For example, the information for indicating the terminal device to leave the cell managed by the source access network device includes a cell changed information element or an out of cell information element.

[0329] For example, the information for indicating the terminal device to leave the cell managed by the source access network device includes indication information.

[0330] For example, when the value of the indication information is “true”, it indicates that the terminal device leaves the cell managed by the source access network device. For another example, when the value of the indication information is “1”, it indicates that the terminal device leaves the cell managed by the source access network device.

[0331] In this embodiment, the information for indicating the terminal device to leave the cell managed by the source access network device can be in the form of explicit indication or implicit indication, which is not limited in the present application.

[0332] In this embodiment, the information for instructing the terminal device to leave the cell managed by the source access network device can be to instruct the terminal device to leave the cell managed by the source access network device in a direct or implicit manner, which is not limited in the present application.

[0333] 4. Information for instructing the terminal device to leave the source access network device in the inactive state.

[0334] The terminal device moves from the signal coverage of the source access network device to the signal coverage of the first access network device. The terminal device is in the inactive state. The source access network device can instruct the positioning device to leave the source access network device in the inactive state. The positioning device can determine that the terminal device leaves the signal coverage of the source access network device in the inactive state or determines that the terminal device moves to the signal coverage of other access network devices in the inactive state. That is, the positioning device can determine the location status of the terminal device.

[0335] In this way, the positioning device will not understand that it is unable to configure SRS for the terminal device in the case that the terminal device is in the signal coverage of the source access network device, thereby causing the positioning device to believe that it is unable to locate the terminal device. Moreover, the positioning device can not request to configure SRS for the terminal device first, and the terminal device can access the first access network device after moving to the first access network device. That is, the positioning device can re-request or request to configure SRS for the terminal device after a period of time, and the terminal device has entered the connected state. That is, the terminal device accesses the first access network device. In this way, the positioning device can successfully request to configure SRS for the terminal device.

[0336] Specifically, the positioning device can request the serving access network device of the terminal device to configure SRS for the terminal device through the AMF again. The terminal device moves to the first access network device. If the terminal device accesses the first access network device, the first access network device is the serving access network device of the terminal device.

[0337] For example, the information for instructing the terminal device to leave the source access network device in the inactive state includes an information element of a positioning information response message.

[0338] For example, the information for instructing the terminal device to leave the source access network device in the inactive state includes a cell changed in inactive state information element, or a UE move out in inactive state information element, etc.

[0339] For example, the information for instructing the terminal device to leave the source access network device in the inactive state includes indication information.

[0340] For example, when the value of the indication information is "true", it indicates that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in the inactive state. For another example, when the value of the indication information is "1", it indicates that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in the inactive state.

[0341] In this embodiment, the information for indicating that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in the inactive state can be in the form of display or implicit indication that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in the inactive state, which is not limited in the present application.

[0342] In this embodiment, the information for indicating that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in the inactive state can be in the form of direct or implicit indication that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in the inactive state, which is not limited in the present application.

[0343] In order to enable the terminal device to access the first access network device to which the terminal device moves, the positioning device requests the first access network device to configure SRS for the terminal device. Optionally, the embodiment further includes steps 303 to 310, which are executed after step 302.

[0344] 303. The source access network device sends a first paging (RAN paging) message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the first paging message from the source access network device.

[0345] The source access network device can send the first paging message to the first access network device in the access network paging area to instruct the first access network device to page the terminal device.

[0346] Optionally, the first paging message includes at least one of the following: first information, second information, or third information.

[0347] The first information is used to indicate that the paging message is used for positioning the terminal device.

[0348] The second information is used to indicate that the positioning information of the terminal device is requested.

[0349] The third information is used to request the configuration of SRS for the terminal device.

[0350] The first information is similar to the third information of step 205 in the embodiment shown in the foregoing Figure 2A The second information is similar to the fourth information of step 205 in the embodiment shown in the foregoing Figure 2A The third information is similar to the fifth information of step 205 in the embodiment shown in the foregoing Figure 2A The third information, the fourth information, and the fifth information of step 205 in the embodiment shown in the foregoing Figure 2A The third information, the fourth information, and the fifth information of step 205 in the embodiment shown in the foregoing

[0351] The first paging message comprises any one or more of the first information, the second information, and the third information. The first access network device can determine, through the first paging message, that the first access network device pages the terminal device for the positioning device to perform positioning on the terminal device. In this way, the first access network device releases the terminal device to the inactive state as early as possible after configuring the SRS for the terminal device, so as to save the energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0352] 304. The first access network device sends a second paging message to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the second paging message from the first access network device.

[0353] Step 304 is similar to the aforementioned step 204 of the embodiment shown in Figure 2A Step 206 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A. Figure 2A

[0354] 305. The terminal device sends an RRC resume request message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the RRC resume request message from the terminal device.

[0355] 306. The first access network device sends a retrieve UE context request message to the source access network device. Correspondingly, the source access network device receives the retrieve UE context request message from the first access network device.

[0356] 307. The source access network device sends a retrieve UE context response message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the retrieve UE context response message sent by the source access network device.

[0357] 308. The first access network device sends an RRC resume message to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the RRC resume message from the first access network device.

[0358] 309. The terminal device sends an RRC resume complete message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the RRC resume complete message from the terminal device.

[0359] 310. The first access network device sends a UE context release message to the source access network device. Correspondingly, the source access network device receives the UE context release message from the first access network device. ​

[0360] As can be seen from steps 303 to 310 above, the terminal device initiates an RRC recovery request to the first access network device to access the network. In this way, the positioning device can request the first access network device to configure SRS for the terminal device via the AMF.

[0361] In this embodiment, the positioning device sends a positioning information request message to the source access network device. Then, the source access network device sends a positioning information response message to the positioning device. The positioning information response message includes at least one of the following: information instructing the positioning device to re-request SRS configuration for the terminal device; information instructing the terminal device to leave the source access network device; information instructing the terminal device to leave the cell managed by the source access network device; or information instructing the terminal device to leave the source access network device in an inactive state. In this way, the positioning device will not interpret the inability to configure SRS for the terminal device when it is within the signal coverage area of ​​the source access network device, thus preventing the positioning device from believing that it cannot locate the terminal device. The positioning device can combine the positioning response message to re-request SRS configuration for the terminal device to facilitate subsequent positioning of the terminal device.

[0362] The above Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment shows steps 301 to 310. In practical applications, not all steps 301 to 310 need to be performed; some or all of the steps 301 to 310 can be performed as needed.

[0363] This application also provides an embodiment, which is related to... Figure 3 The embodiments shown are similar, except that: the above Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, step 302 is executed after step 310. That is, after the source access network device receives the UE context release message for the terminal device from the first access network device, the source access network device can determine that the terminal device has connected to the first access network device. Then, the source access network device executes step 302 to ensure that when the positioning device requests SRS configuration for the terminal device again, the terminal device has entered the connected state. Therefore, the positioning device can successfully request the first access network device to configure SRS for the terminal device, facilitating subsequent positioning of the terminal device.

[0364] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the communication method described in this application. Figure 4 In this context, communication methods include:

[0365] 401. The positioning device sends a positioning information request message to the source access network device. Correspondingly, the source access network device receives the positioning information request message from the positioning device.

[0366] Step 401 is similar to step 301 of the foregoing embodiment shown in the table, and details are described in the foregoing Figure 3 Step 301 of the foregoing embodiment shown in the table, and details are described in the foregoing Figure 3 Step 301 of the foregoing embodiment shown in the table, and details are described in the foregoing

[0367] 402. The source access network device sends a positioning information failure message to the positioning device. Correspondingly, the positioning device receives the positioning information failure message from the source access network device.

[0368] The positioning information failure message includes a cause. The cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access device; or the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the source access network device; or the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in an inactive state; or the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the source access network device in an inactive state.

[0369] For example, the cause information element of the positioning information failure message includes a terminal device leaving the source access network device cause.

[0370] Specifically, the terminal device moves from the signal coverage range of the source access network device to the signal coverage range of the first access network device. The source access network device can instruct the positioning device that the terminal device leaves the signal coverage range of the source access network device. Then the positioning device can determine that the terminal device leaves the signal coverage range of the source access network device. Or, the positioning device determines that the terminal device has moved to the signal coverage range of other access network devices. That is, the positioning device can determine the location state of the terminal device. In this way, the positioning device will not understand that it is unable to configure SRS for the terminal device in the case that the terminal device is in the signal coverage range of the source access network device, thereby causing the positioning device to believe that it is unable to position the terminal device.

[0371] Then, the positioning device can re-request the serving access network device of the terminal device to configure SRS for the terminal device. Wherein, the terminal device moves to the first access network device, and if the terminal device accesses the first access network device, the first access network device is the serving access network device of the terminal device. Specifically, the positioning device can re-request the serving access network device of the terminal device to configure SRS for the terminal device through the AMF.

[0372] For example, the cause information element of the positioning information failure message includes a terminal device leaving a cell managed by the source access network device cause.

[0373] Specifically, the terminal device moves from a cell managed by a source access network device to a cell managed by a first access network device. The source access network device can indicate the positioning device that the terminal device leaves the signal coverage range of the source access network device, and then the positioning device can determine that the terminal device leaves the cell managed by the source access network device; or the positioning device determines that the terminal device has moved to a cell managed by another access network device. That is, the positioning device can determine the location state of the terminal device.

[0374] In this way, the positioning device will not understand that the SRS cannot be configured for the terminal device in the case that the terminal device is in the signal coverage range of the source access network device, and thus the positioning device considers that the terminal device cannot be positioned. Then, the positioning device can re-request the terminal device's serving access network device to configure SRS for the terminal device. Wherein, the terminal device moves to the first access network device, and if the terminal device accesses the first access network device, the first access network device is the serving access network device of the terminal device. Specifically, the positioning device can re-request the terminal device's serving access network device to configure SRS for the terminal device through the AMF.

[0375] For example, the cause information element of the positioning information failure message includes the reason why the terminal device leaves the source access network device in the inactive state.

[0376] Specifically, the terminal device moves from the signal coverage range of the source access network device to the signal coverage range of the first access network device. The terminal device is in the inactive state. The source access network device can indicate the positioning device that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in the inactive state. Then the positioning device can determine that the terminal device leaves the signal coverage range of the source access network device in the inactive state; or the positioning device can determine that the terminal device moves to the signal coverage range of another access network device in the inactive state. That is, the positioning device can determine the location state of the terminal device.

[0377] In this way, the positioning device does not understand that it is unable to configure SRS for the terminal device in the case that the terminal device is in the signal coverage of the source access network device, and further causes the positioning device to believe that it is unable to position the terminal device. The positioning device can first not request to configure SRS for the terminal device, and after the terminal device moves to the first access network device, the terminal device can access the first access network device. That is, the positioning device can re-request or request after a period of time to configure SRS for the terminal device, and the terminal device has entered the connected state, that is, the terminal device accesses the first access network device, so that the positioning device can successfully request to configure SRS for the terminal device. Specifically, the positioning device can re-request to configure SRS for the terminal device through the AMF to the serving access network device of the terminal device. Wherein, the terminal device moves to the first access network device, and if the terminal device accesses the first access network device, the first access network device is the serving access network device of the terminal device.

[0378] For example, the cause information element of the positioning information failure message includes a reason why the terminal device leaves the cell managed by the source access network device in the inactive state.

[0379] Specifically, the terminal device moves from the cell managed by the source access network device to the cell managed by the first access network device. The source access network device can instruct the positioning device that the terminal device leaves the signal coverage of the source access network device in the inactive state. The positioning device can determine that the terminal device is in the inactive state and leaves the signal coverage of the source access network device or determines that the terminal device is in the inactive state and moves to the signal coverage of other access network devices. That is, the positioning device can determine the location status of the terminal device.

[0380] In this way, the positioning device does not understand that it is unable to configure SRS for the terminal device in the case that the terminal device is in the signal coverage of the source access network device, and further causes the positioning device to believe that it is unable to position the terminal device. The positioning device can first not request to configure SRS for the terminal device, and after the terminal device moves to the first access network device, the terminal device can access the first access network device. That is, the positioning device can re-request or request after a period of time to configure SRS for the terminal device, and the terminal device has entered the connected state, that is, the terminal device accesses the first access network device, so that the positioning device can successfully request to configure SRS for the terminal device. Specifically, the positioning device can re-request to configure SRS for the terminal device through the AMF to the serving access network device of the terminal device. Wherein, the terminal device moves to the first access network device, and if the terminal device accesses the first access network device, the first access network device is the serving access network device of the terminal device.

[0381] 403、The source access network device sends a first paging (RAN paging) message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the first paging message from the source access network device.

[0382] 404. The first access network device sends a second paging message to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the second paging message from the first access network device.

[0383] 405. The terminal device sends an RRC resume request message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the RRC resume request message from the terminal device.

[0384] 406. The first access network device sends a retrieve UE context request message to the source access network device. Correspondingly, the source access network device receives the retrieve UE context request message from the first access network device.

[0385] 407. The source access network device sends a retrieve UE context response message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the retrieve UE context response message from the source access network device.

[0386] 408. The first access network device sends an RRC resume message to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the RRC resume message from the first access network device.

[0387] 409. The terminal device sends an RRC resume complete message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the RRC resume complete message from the terminal device.

[0388] 410. The first access network device sends a UE context release message to the source access network device. Correspondingly, the source access network device receives the UE context release message from the first access network device.

[0389] Steps 403 to 410 are similar to steps 303 to 310 in the foregoing Figure 3 embodiment, and details are referred to the related introduction of steps 303 to 310 in the foregoing Figure 3 embodiment, and details are referred to the related introduction of steps 303 to 310 in the foregoing

[0390] In the embodiment of the present application, the positioning device sends a positioning information request message to the source access network device. Then, the source access network device sends a positioning information response message to the positioning device. The positioning information response message includes a cause. The cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access device; or the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a cell managed by the source access network device; or the cause is used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access network device in an inactive state. In this way, the positioning device will not understand that the SRS cannot be configured for the terminal device in the case that the terminal device is in the signal coverage range of the source access network device, thereby causing the positioning device to believe that the terminal device cannot be positioned. The positioning device can request the configuration of the SRS for the terminal device again in combination with the positioning information failure message, so as to facilitate subsequent positioning of the terminal device.

[0391] The above Figure 4 The embodiment shown in FIG. 4 illustrates steps 401 to 410. In actual applications, steps 401 to 410 are not necessarily all executed, and some or all of steps 401 to 410 can be executed according to requirements.

[0392] The present application also provides an embodiment similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, except that step 402 is executed after step 410 in the above Figure 4 The embodiment shown in FIG. 4 illustrates steps 401 to 410. In actual applications, steps 401 to 410 are not necessarily all executed, and some or all of steps 401 to 410 can be executed according to requirements. Figure 4

[0393] The present application also provides an embodiment similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, except that step 402 is executed after step 410 in the above Figure 5 The present application also provides an embodiment similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, except that step 402 is executed after step 410 in the above

[0394] When the communication device 500 is an access network device or a chip in an access network device, the communication device 500 can be used to execute all or part of the steps performed by the first access network device in the embodiments shown in FIGs. 1 to 3. Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B and Figure 2C Reference can be made to the related descriptions in the method embodiments shown in FIGs. 1 to 3. Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B and Figure 2C Reference can be made to the related descriptions in the method embodiments shown in FIGs. 1 to 3. ​

[0395] For example, the sending unit 501 is used to perform the above. Figure 2A Steps 201, 204, 206, and 208 in the illustrated embodiment are shown. The receiving unit 502 is used to perform the above-described steps. Figure 2A Steps 202, 205, and 207 in the illustrated embodiment are shown. Processing unit 503 is used to execute the above steps. Figure 2A Step 203 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0396] For example, the sending unit 501 is used to perform the above. Figure 2B In the embodiment shown, step 204 of sending method one is performed; or the sending unit 501 is used to perform the above. Figure 2B In the embodiment shown, step 204 of method two is transmitted; or the transmitting unit 501 is used to perform the above. Figure 2B The embodiment shown transmits steps 204a and 204 in method three.

[0397] For example, the sending unit 501 is used to perform the above. Figure 2C In the illustrated embodiment, step 208 of method one is obtained; or the sending unit 501 is used to perform the above. Figure 2C The embodiment shown illustrates step 212 of obtaining method two.

[0398] The following describes a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Please refer to... Figure 6 This application provides a schematic diagram of a communication device 600 according to an embodiment. The communication device 600 includes a receiving unit 601 and a transmitting unit 602.

[0399] When the communication device 600 is an access network device, or a chip within an access network device, the communication device 600 can be used to perform the above-mentioned functions. Figure 2A , Figure 2C , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The steps performed by the source access network device in the illustrated embodiments can be referred to the above. Figure 2A , Figure 2C , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The relevant descriptions in the method embodiments shown.

[0400] For example, the receiving unit 601 is used to perform the above. Figure 2A Steps 201, 208, and 209 in the illustrated embodiment are shown. The sending unit 602 is used to perform the above steps. Figure 2A Steps 202, 205, and 210 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0401] For example, the receiving unit 601 is used to perform the above. Figure 2CThe step 208 of the first obtaining manner in the embodiment shown. The sending unit 602 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 2C The step 211 of the first obtaining manner in the embodiment shown.

[0402] For example, the receiving unit 601 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 3 The steps 301, 306 and 310 in the embodiment shown. The sending unit 602 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 3 The steps 302, 303 and 307 in the embodiment shown.

[0403] For example, the receiving unit 601 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 4 The steps 401, 406 and 410 in the embodiment shown. The sending unit 602 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 4 The steps 402, 403 and 407 in the embodiment shown.

[0404] When the communication apparatus 600 is a terminal device, or a chip in a terminal device, the communication apparatus 600 can be configured to perform all or part of the steps performed by the terminal device in the above-mentioned Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 Embodiments shown, please refer to the above-mentioned Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 Method embodiment in the related description.

[0405] For example, the receiving unit 601 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 2A The steps 204 and 206 in the embodiment shown, the sending unit 602 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 2A The step 207 in the embodiment shown.

[0406] For example, the receiving unit 601 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 2B The step 204 of the first sending manner in the embodiment shown; or the receiving unit 601 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 2B The step 204 of the second sending manner in the embodiment shown; or the receiving unit 601 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 2B The steps 204a and 204 of the third sending manner in the embodiment shown.

[0407] For example, the receiving unit 601 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 3 The steps 304 and 308 in the embodiment shown, the sending unit 602 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 3 The steps 305 and 309 in the embodiment shown.

[0408] For example, the receiving unit 601 is used to perform the above. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, steps 404 and 408 are performed by the sending unit 602. Figure 4 Steps 405 and 409 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0409] When the communication device 600 is a positioning device, or a chip within a positioning device, the communication device 600 can be used to perform the above-mentioned tasks. Figure 2A , Figure 2C , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The steps performed by the positioning device in the illustrated embodiments can be referred to the above. Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The relevant descriptions in the method embodiments shown.

[0410] For example, the receiving unit 601 is used to perform the above. Figure 2A In step 210 of the illustrated embodiment, the sending unit 602 is used to perform the above-described steps. Figure 2A Step 209 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0411] For example, the receiving unit 601 is used to perform the above. Figure 2C The illustrated embodiment obtains step 211 of method one, or step 212 of method two.

[0412] For example, the receiving unit 601 is used to perform the above. Figure 3 In step 301 of the illustrated embodiment, the sending unit 602 is used to perform the above-described... Figure 3 Step 301 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0413] For example, the receiving unit 601 is used to perform the above. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, step 401, the sending unit 602 is used to perform the above... Figure 4 Step 401 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0414] When the communication device 600 is an access network device, or a chip within an access network device, the communication device 600 can be used to perform the above-mentioned functions. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The steps performed by the first access network device in the illustrated embodiment can be referred to the above. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The relevant descriptions in the method embodiments shown.

[0415] For example, the receiving unit 601 is used to perform the above. Figure 3 Steps 303, 305, 307, and 309 in the illustrated embodiment are shown. The sending unit 602 is used to perform the above steps.Figure 3 Step 304, step 306, step 308 and step 310 in the embodiment shown.

[0416] For example, the receiving unit 601 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 4 Step 403, step 405, step 407 and step 409 in the embodiment shown. The sending unit 602 is configured to perform the above-mentioned Figure 4 Step 404, step 406, step 408 and step 410 in the embodiment shown.

[0417] The present application also provides a communication apparatus, please refer to Figure 7 , another structural schematic diagram of the communication apparatus 700 in the embodiment of the present application.

[0418] The communication apparatus 700 comprises a processor 701, a memory 702 and a transceiver 703.

[0419] The processor 701, the memory 702 and the transceiver 703 are connected by bus respectively, and the memory stores computer instructions.

[0420] When the communication apparatus 700 is an access network device, or a chip in the access network device, the communication apparatus 700 can be configured to perform Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C , Figure 3 and Figure 4 the steps performed by the first access network device in the embodiment shown. For details, please refer to the related description in the above method embodiment.

[0421] The sending unit 501 and the receiving unit 502 in the foregoing Figure 5 may be the transceiver 703 in the embodiment specifically, and thus the specific implementation of the transceiver 703 will not be repeated. The processing unit 503 in the foregoing Figure 5 may be the processor 701 in the embodiment specifically, and thus the specific implementation of the processor 701 will not be repeated.

[0422] When the communication apparatus 700 is an access network device, or a chip in the access network device, the communication apparatus 700 can be configured to perform Figure 2A , Figure 2C , Figure 3 and Figure 4 the steps performed by the source access network device in the embodiment shown. For details, please refer to the related description in the above method embodiment.

[0423] The receiving unit 601 and the sending unit 602 in the foregoing Figure 6 may be the transceiver 703 in the embodiment specifically, and thus the specific implementation of the transceiver 703 will not be repeated.

[0424] When the communication device 700 is a positioning device, or a chip within a positioning device, the communication device 700 can be used to perform... Figure 2A , Figure 2C , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The steps performed by the positioning device in the illustrated embodiments can be referred to the relevant descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0425] The foregoing Figure 6 The receiving unit 601 and the transmitting unit 602 in the embodiment can specifically be the transceiver 703 in this embodiment, so the specific implementation of the transceiver 703 will not be described in detail.

[0426] The following is through Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a possible structure of a terminal device is shown.

[0427] Figure 8 A simplified schematic diagram of a terminal device is shown. For ease of understanding and illustration, Figure 8 In this context, the terminal device is taken as a mobile phone. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the terminal device includes a processor, memory, radio frequency (RF) circuitry, antenna, and input / output devices. The processor is primarily used for processing communication protocols and data, controlling the terminal device, executing software programs, and processing software program data. The memory is mainly used to store software programs and data. The RF circuitry is mainly used for converting baseband signals to RF signals and processing RF signals. The antenna is mainly used for transmitting and receiving RF signals in the form of electromagnetic waves. Input / output devices, such as touchscreens, displays, and keyboards, are mainly used to receive user input data and output data to the user. It should be noted that some types of terminal devices may not have input / output devices.

[0428] When data needs to be sent, the processor performs baseband processing on the data to be sent and outputs the baseband signal to the radio frequency (RF) circuit. The RF circuit then processes the baseband signal and transmits it outward as electromagnetic waves through the antenna. When data is sent to the terminal device, the RF circuit receives the RF signal through the antenna, converts it into a baseband signal, and outputs the baseband signal to the processor. The processor then converts the baseband signal back into data and processes it. For ease of explanation, Figure 8 Only one memory and processor are shown in the illustration. In actual terminal device products, there may be one or more processors and one or more memories. Memory may also be referred to as storage medium or storage device, etc. Memory may be set up independently of the processor or integrated with the processor; this application does not limit this.

[0429] In this embodiment, the antenna and radio frequency circuit with transceiver functions can be considered as the transceiver unit of the terminal device, and the processor with processing functions can be considered as the processing unit of the terminal device. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the terminal device includes a transceiver unit 810 and a processing unit 820. The transceiver unit can also be called a transceiver, transceiver machine, transceiver device, etc. The processing unit can also be called a processor, processing board, processing module, processing device, etc. Optionally, the device in the transceiver unit 810 used to implement the receiving function can be considered as a receiving unit, and the device in the transceiver unit 810 used to implement the transmitting function can be considered as a transmitting unit; that is, the transceiver unit 810 includes both a receiving unit and a transmitting unit. The transceiver unit can sometimes also be called a transceiver, transceiver, or transceiver circuit, etc. The receiving unit can sometimes be called a receiver, receiver, or receiving circuit, etc. The transmitting unit can sometimes be called a transmitter, transmitter, or transmitting circuit, etc.

[0430] It should be understood that the transceiver unit 810 is used to perform the sending and receiving operations of the terminal device in the above method embodiment, and the processing unit 820 is used to perform other operations on the terminal device in the above method embodiment besides the sending and receiving operations.

[0431] One possible implementation is that the transceiver unit 810 is used to perform the above... Figure 2A Steps 204, 206, and 207 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0432] In another possible implementation, the transceiver unit 810 is used to perform the above... Figure 2B In the embodiment shown, step 204 of method one is sent; or the above... Figure 2B In the embodiment shown, step 204 of method two is sent; or as described above. Figure 2B The embodiment shown transmits steps 204a and 204 of method three.

[0433] In another possible implementation, the transceiver unit 810 is used to perform the above... Figure 3 Steps 304, 305, 308, and 309 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0434] In another possible implementation, the transceiver unit 810 is used to perform the above... Figure 4 Steps 404, 405, 408, and 409 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0435] When the terminal device is a chip, the chip includes a transceiver unit and a processing unit. The transceiver unit can be an input / output circuit or a communication interface; the processing unit is a processor, microprocessor, integrated circuit, or logic circuit integrated on the chip. In the above method embodiments, the sending operation corresponds to the output of the input / output circuit, and the receiving operation corresponds to the input of the input / output circuit.

[0436] Referring to Figure 9 Embodiments of the present application further provide a communication system, which comprises a first access network device and a source access network device. The first access network device is configured to perform all or part of the steps performed by the first access network device in the embodiments shown in Figure 2A and Figure 2C Embodiments of the present application further provide a communication system, which comprises a first access network device and a source access network device. The first access network device is configured to perform all or part of the steps performed by the first access network device in the embodiments shown in Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C Embodiments of the present application further provide a communication system, which comprises a first access network device and a source access network device. The first access network device is configured to perform all or part of the steps performed by the first access network device in the embodiments shown in

[0437] Referring to Figure 10 Embodiments of the present application further provide another communication system, which comprises a source access network device and a positioning device. The source access network device is configured to perform all or part of the steps performed by the source access network device in the embodiments shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 Embodiments of the present application further provide a communication system, which comprises a first access network device and a source access network device. The first access network device is configured to perform all or part of the steps performed by the first access network device in the embodiments shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 Embodiments of the present application further provide a communication system, which comprises a first access network device and a source access network device. The first access network device is configured to perform all or part of the steps performed by the first access network device in the embodiments shown in

[0438] Embodiments of the present application further provide a computer program product comprising computer instructions which, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the communication method of the embodiments shown in Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C , Figure 3 and Figure 4 Embodiments of the present application further provide a computer readable storage medium comprising computer instructions which, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the communication method of the embodiments shown in

[0439] Embodiments of the present application further provide a computer readable storage medium comprising computer instructions which, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the communication method of the embodiments shown in Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C , Figure 3 and Figure 4 Embodiments of the present application further provide a chip device, comprising a processor configured to invoke computer programs or computer instructions stored in a memory, so as to cause the processor to perform the communication method of the embodiments shown in ,

[0440] , Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C , Figure 3 , Figure 4 Embodiments of the present application further provide a chip device, comprising a processor configured to invoke computer programs or computer instructions stored in a memory, so as to cause the processor to perform the communication method of the embodiments shown in

[0441] Optionally, the processor is coupled with the memory through an interface.

[0442] Optionally, the chip device further comprises the memory, and the memory stores the computer programs or computer instructions.

[0443] The processor mentioned in any of the above can be a general central processing unit, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits for controlling the above ​ 、 ​ 、 ​ 、 ​ and ​ The processor mentioned in any of the above can be a general central processing unit, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits for controlling the above

[0444] It should be noted that the above-described device embodiments are only schematic, and units described as separate components can or can not be physically separate, and components shown as units can or can not be physical units, i.e., can be located in one place or distributed over multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected according to actual needs to achieve the purpose of the embodiment. In addition, the device embodiments provided in the present application have a connection relationship between the modules, which indicates that there is a communication connection between them, which can be implemented as one or more communication buses or signal lines.

[0445] From the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that the present application can be implemented by means of software and the necessary general hardware, and of course can also be implemented by special hardware including special integrated circuits, special CPUs, special memories, special components, etc. Generally, functions completed by computer programs can be easily implemented by corresponding hardware, and specific hardware structures for implementing the same function can also be various, such as analog circuits, digital circuits or special circuits. However, for the present application, software program implementation is a better embodiment. Based on this understanding, the technical solutions of the present application can be embodied in the form of a software product, which is stored in a readable storage medium, such as a computer's floppy disk, U disk, mobile hard disk, ROM, RAM, magnetic disk or optical disk, etc., including a number of instructions to make a computer device execute the methods of various embodiments of the present application.

[0446] In the above embodiments, all or part can be realized by software, hardware, firmware or any combination thereof. When realized by software, it can be realized in the form of a computer program product in whole or in part.

[0447] The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on the computer, the processes or functions according to the embodiments of the present application are generated in whole or in part. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable devices. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another computer-readable storage medium, for example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, network device, or local computing device, computing device or data center to another website, computer, network device, or local computing device, computing device or data center through wired (such as coaxial cable, optical fiber, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (such as infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) manner. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that the computer can store or be integrated into a network device, or a local computing device, a data center, etc. Data storage device. The available medium can be a magnetic medium (for example, a floppy disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape), an optical medium (for example, a DVD), or a semiconductor medium (for example, a solid state disk (SSD)), etc.

[0448] It should be understood that the "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mentioned throughout the specification means that the specific features, structures or characteristics related to the embodiment are included in at least one embodiment of the present application. Therefore, "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" appearing throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, these specific features, structures or characteristics can be combined in one or more embodiments in any suitable manner. It should be understood that the size of the sequence number of each process described above in various embodiments of the present application does not mean the order of execution, and the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and inherent logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of the present application.

[0449] Those of ordinary skill in the art can realize that the units and algorithm steps of the examples described in combination with the embodiments disclosed herein can be realized in electronic hardware, computer software or a combination of both. In order to clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, the components and steps of each example have been described in the above description in general terms. Whether the functions are performed in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. A person skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of the present application.

[0450] Those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the convenience and brevity of description, the specific working processes of the system, device and unit described above can refer to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0451] In several embodiments provided in the present application, it should be understood that the disclosed system, device and method can be implemented in other manners. For example, the described device embodiments are merely schematic, and the division of units is merely a logical function division, and there can be another division manner in actual implementation. For example, a plurality of units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. In addition, the displayed or discussed mutual couplings or direct couplings or communication connections can be indirect couplings or communication connections through some interfaces, devices or units, and can be electrical, mechanical or in other forms.

[0452] The units described as separated components can or can not be physically separated, and the components displayed as units can or can not be physical units, i.e., can be located in one place, or can be distributed on a plurality of network units. In actual implementation, some or all of the units can be selected according to actual needs to achieve the purposes of the embodiments.

[0453] In addition, each functional unit in the embodiments of the present application can be integrated in a processing unit, or each unit can exist physically, or two or more units can be integrated in one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in the form of hardware, or in the form of software function units.

[0454] If the integrated unit is implemented in the form of software function units and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer readable storage medium. Based on such an understanding, the technical solutions of the present application essentially, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solutions can be embodied in the form of a software product. The computer software product is stored in a storage medium, and includes several instructions for causing a computer device (which can be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods in the embodiments of the present application.

[0455] In conclusion, the above description is merely the preferred embodiments of the technical solutions of the present application, and is not used to limit the protection scope of the present application. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc. made within the spirit and principles of the present application shall be included in the protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method applied to a first access network device or a chip in the first access network device, the method comprising: sending, to a source access network device, a UE context retrieval request message; receiving, from the source access network device, a UE context retrieval response message, the UE context retrieval response message comprising reference information for configuring a sounding reference signal (SRS) of a terminal device, the reference information comprising information of SRS transmission characteristics, the information of SRS transmission characteristics comprising at least one of a transmission period of the SRS recommended by a positioning device for configuring the terminal device or a bandwidth of the SRS, the terminal device being in an inactive state; determining SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to the reference information; sending, to the terminal device, the SRS configuration information.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The UE context retrieval response message comprises a routing identifier, the routing identifier being used to identify a positioning device.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The UE context retrieval request message comprises any one of first information or second information; the first information being used to request the reference information; the second information being used to request positioning information of the terminal device.

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sending, to the terminal device, of the SRS configuration information comprises: sending, to the terminal device, a radio resource control (RRC) release message, the RRC release message comprising the SRS configuration information.

5. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method applied to a source access network device or a chip in the source access network device, the method comprising: receiving, from a first access network device, a UE context retrieval request message; sending, to the first access network device, a UE context retrieval response message, the UE context retrieval response message comprising reference information for configuring a sounding reference signal (SRS) of a terminal device, the reference information comprising information of SRS transmission characteristics, the information of SRS transmission characteristics comprising at least one of a transmission period of the SRS recommended by a positioning device for configuring the terminal device or a bandwidth of the SRS, the terminal device being in an inactive state.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein, The UE context retrieval response message comprises a routing identifier, the routing identifier being used to identify a positioning device.

7. The method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The UE context retrieval request message comprises any one of first information or second information; the first information being used to request the reference information; the second information being used to request positioning information of the terminal device.

8. The method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The method further comprises: sending, to a positioning device, a positioning information failure message, the positioning information failure message comprising a cause, the cause being used to indicate that the terminal device leaves the source access network device.

9. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method applied to a terminal device or a chip in the terminal device, the method comprising: sending, to a first access network device, a radio resource control (RRC) resume request message; receiving, from the first access network device, an RRC release message; The RRC release message includes SRS configuration information of the terminal device, the SRS configuration information being determined according to reference information for configuring SRS of the terminal device by the first access network device, the reference information including information of sounding reference signal transmission characteristics, the information of sounding reference signal transmission characteristics including at least one of a transmission period of SRS configured for the terminal device recommended by a positioning device or a bandwidth of the SRS.

10. A communications device, characterized by The communication apparatus includes: a sending unit configured to send a UE context acquisition request message to a source access network device; a receiving unit configured to receive a UE context acquisition response message from the source access network device, the UE context acquisition response message including reference information for configuring sounding reference signal (SRS) of a terminal device, the reference information including information of sounding reference signal transmission characteristics, the information of sounding reference signal transmission characteristics including at least one of a transmission period of SRS configured for the terminal device recommended by a positioning device or a bandwidth of the SRS, the terminal device being in an inactive state; a processing unit configured to determine SRS configuration information of the terminal device according to the reference information; the sending unit is further configured to send the SRS configuration information to the terminal device.

11. The communication apparatus according to claim 10, wherein The UE context acquisition response message includes a routing identifier, the routing identifier being used to identify a positioning device.

12. The communication apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The UE context acquisition request message includes any one of first information or second information; the first information is used to request the reference information; the second information is used to request positioning information of the terminal device.

13. The communication apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The sending unit is specifically configured to: send a radio resource control (RRC) release message to the terminal device, the RRC release message including the SRS configuration information.

14. A communications device, characterized by The communication apparatus includes: a receiving unit configured to receive a UE context acquisition request message sent by a first access network device; a sending unit configured to send a UE context acquisition response message to the first access network device, the UE context acquisition response message including reference information for configuring sounding reference signal (SRS) of a terminal device, the reference information including information of sounding reference signal transmission characteristics, the information of sounding reference signal transmission characteristics including at least one of a transmission period of SRS configured for the terminal device recommended by a positioning device or a bandwidth of the SRS, the terminal device being in an inactive state.

15. The communication apparatus according to claim 14, wherein The UE context acquisition response message includes a routing identifier, the routing identifier being used to identify a positioning device.

16. The communication apparatus according to claim 14 or 15, characterized by The UE context acquisition request message includes any one of first information or second information; the first information is used to request the reference information; the second information is used to request positioning information of the terminal device.

17. The communication apparatus according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, The sending unit is further configured to: send a positioning information failure message to a positioning device, the positioning information failure message including a cause, the cause being used to indicate that the terminal device leaves a source access network device.

18. A communications device, characterized by The communication apparatus includes: a sending unit configured to send a radio resource control (RRC) resume request message to a first access network device; receive, from the first access network device, an RRC release message; the RRC release message comprises SRS configuration information of the terminal device, the SRS configuration information being determined by the first access network device according to reference information used for configuring SRS of the terminal device, the reference information comprising information of a sounding reference signal transmission characteristic, the information of the sounding reference signal transmission characteristic comprising at least one of the following: a transmission period of the SRS configured for the terminal device recommended by a positioning device, or a bandwidth of the SRS.

19. A communications device, characterized by The communication device comprises a processor configured to invoke computer programs or computer instructions in a memory, so that the communication device performs the method of any one of claims 1 to 4; or so that the communication device performs the method of any one of claims 5 to 8; or so that the communication device performs the method of claim 9.

20. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer program comprises computer instructions, which, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 4; or cause the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 5 to 8; or cause the computer to perform the method of claim 9.

21. A communication system, characterized by The communication system comprises the communication device of any one of claims 10 to 13 and the communication device of any one of claims 14 to 17.

22. The communication system of claim 21, wherein, The communication system further comprises the communication device of claim 18.

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